So, never skip breakfast. In fact, your breakfast should be the most important meal of the day. Eating three traditional, heavy meals tend to make one lethargic; try dividing your meals into five or six small portions instead. It is not recommended to follow any strict diet routine during exams. But, you should try to eat healthy and light foods, which will help keep you active.

Add food products high in fiber, such as oatmeal and barley, to your diet.

Include seasonal fruits and vegetables in your meals to feel energetic.

Protein-rich foods such as sprouts, dairy products, eggs and black grams, should be consumed.

Junk foods, energy drinks, carbonated drinks should be avoided as they are calorie-dense and make you lethargic.

Dry fruits such as almonds, walnuts, pistachios as well as flax seeds are good source of healthy fats and nutrients like omega-3 and zinc, which aid memory.

Keep your body hydrated. Drink plenty of water during the day.

When it comes to exercise, you can pick any time of the day as per your convenience. However, the best time to exercise is early morning as it helps keep you energetic through the day. Twenty minutes or even less of exercise, once or twice a day, helps students to study better. According to a recent study, children who are engaged in some form of physical activity are more active and show better concentration and perform better on their academic tests than children who are not physically active. Here's how exercise helps:

Increases blood flow to the body and brain, improving your memory.Betters your coordination and reflexes.Helps you to sleep better, so you wake up relaxed and calm.Releases feel-good hormones in the body.

(The author is fitness expert, nutritionist and director, GFFI Fitness Academy, Delhi)]]>Student speakhttp://www.deccanherald.com/content/462415/student-speak.html
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/462415/student-speak.htmlFri, 27 Feb 2015 18:32:53 +0530By Deepika Nidige, feb 28, 2015The exam jitters are palpable. But not everyone is a victim. There are those who are confident of topping the exams, while there are others who are smart enough to have set realistic expectations. "At the end of the day, one should realise that it is not the end of the world," says Neha Anil, a II PU student from Bengaluru. She believes that consistent preparation and support from teachers is what has made her confident. Her sister, Nidhi, who is appearing for tenth standard exams, echoes her sentiment. Barely nervous, she thinks having an older sibling is an added asset, as they share their experiences and help out when in need.

Needless to say, the mounting pressure is no elephant in the room. It is widely acknowledged, and whats more, children have found constructive and effective ways to deal with it. Popular outlets seem to include listening to music, watching some TV, taking small walks and meditating. Some even believe that compromising on extracurricular activities is unnecessary. Pavitra V, a II PU Commerce student from Mysuru, took part in her colleges annual sports day and cultural festival, notwithstanding the upcoming board exams.

However, for students like Swamini Moye, a class ten student from Pune, it's mostly studies and no play. The games on the computer are off limits until the exams are over. Her mother Amita reasons, "It is important to keep kids in check. I have stopped giving her oily snacks and cold food. Her exams are the most important thing right now."

The sentiment is echoed in most Indian homes. Even if kids are mature enough to figure out what is expected of them, parents seem to find it challenging to figure out a middle ground so that their children give the exams their best shot, without facing a burnout in the process.

But then, some things never really change. Says Ria Ramesh, a II PU Arts student from Navi Mumbai, "Im a little nervous, in spite of being prepared. There have been some rumours that the papers will be tough. I just want to finish with these exams."]]>Some shut-eye works wondershttp://www.deccanherald.com/content/462414/some-shut-eye-works-wonders.html
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/462414/some-shut-eye-works-wonders.htmlFri, 27 Feb 2015 18:28:43 +0530By Dr Aneesh Baweja, Feb 28, 2015All of us experience situations when we simply do not have enough time to finish all that is expected of us. At times like this, we imagine what difference an extra hour could make to our day. Since it is beyond human capability to stop time, we find that extra hour by doing what is in our hands - cutting down on sleep.

While initially it might seem like an inspired choice, allowing us to complete the tasks that would have been left incomplete, prolonged sleep deprivation can be extremely hazardous. Why, you might ask, after all, sleep is only eight wasted hours of essentially doing nothing! Hours which could be used for more useful pursuits, like studying, right?

Everything in the world requires rest; even machines and computers are switched off and restarted on a regular basis. Human body, being the most exquisite of machines created by nature, requires rebooting, too. During sleep, proteins called cytokines are released by the immune system in order to boost healing of an injury/inflammation, decrease stress levels and repair cell damage incurred during the day. A minimum of six to eight hours of sleep is recommended every day.

Missing out on sleep leads to a decreased production of these cytokines, which in turn hampers the body's regenerative ability. Sleep-deprived people often complain of persistent drowsiness/tiredness, irritability, decreased ability to focus, frequent head/body aches, fogginess/amnesia and are also vulnerable to a host of medical problems like:

Weight gain and increased risk of diabetes due to disrupted regulation of metabolism.Increase in stress levels.Increased risk of hypertension and heart diseases.Weakened immune system.Impaired memory and brain function/increased risk of dementia and amnesia. Depression, mood swings and other psychiatric disorders.

Various relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation and acupressure therapy could be used to help bring down the stress levels in students for a good night's rest. Further, physical activities like exercising and running help expend extra energy to allow the body to shut down properly.

Reading a book, watching television or listening to soft music during bedtime often helps to unclutter the mind, allowing you to relax. In case you miss out on sleep during the night - exams tend to do that to most students - try power-napping during the day to catch up on missed sleep and keep up the energy levels.

(The author is senior consultant, psychiatry, Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute, Delhi)]]>This too shall pass...http://www.deccanherald.com/content/462413/this-too-shall-pass.html
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/462413/this-too-shall-pass.htmlFri, 27 Feb 2015 18:07:45 +0530Swati Popat Vats, Feb 28, 2015Children above the age of six thrive on competition and exam is a competition they will be able to take in their stride, only if parents do not put speed breakers of nervousness, anxiety and false expectation in their way.

Children are usually nervous about exams when they aren't well-prepared or not confident enough about their memory. They could also be worried about not being able to complete the paper or not living up to expectations.

Parents have the most important role to play in reducing exam stress. Please do not bog them down with unrealistic expectations or comparisons with other children.

As parents you should help to eliminate their fears, rather than contribute to them.nBe extremely patient with the child and know his/her potential - only push them that much.nAlways believe in your child - don't hurry or worry him/her.

Make time to be there for the child, but there needs to be a conscious effort not to be a 'hyper parent'.

Remember that success is different for different individuals; celebrate whatever success your child achieves.

So, let your child study, while you ensure that they have a balance of both, studies and fun even during exams. Cook healthy food for the child and see to it that there are no late nights, either for studying or partying. And yes, hug them before they leave for the exams and tell them, "You are important to me and I wish you all the best."

Parental guidelines

Children above the age of six thrive on competition and exam is a competition they will be able to take in their stride, only if parents do not put speed breakers of nervousness, anxiety and false expectation in their way.

Children are usually nervous about exams when they aren't well-prepared or not confident enough about their memory. They could also be worried about not being able to complete the paper or not living up to expectations.

Parents have the most important role to play in reducing exam stress. Please do not bog them down with unrealistic expectations or comparisons with other children.

As parents you should help to eliminate their fears, rather than contribute to them.

Be extremely patient with the child and know his/her potential - only push them that much.

Always believe in your child - don't hurry or worry him/her.

Make time to be there for the child, but there needs to be a conscious effort not to be a 'hyper parent'.

Remember that success is different for different individuals; celebrate whatever success your child achieves.

So, let your child study, while you ensure that they have a balance of both, studies and fun even during exams. Cook healthy food for the child and see to it that there are no late nights, either for studying or partying. And yes, hug them before they leave for the exams and tell them, "You are important to me and I wish you all the best."

(The author is the president of Early Childhood Association - India and Podar Jumbo Kids)

(The author is the president of Early Childhood Association - India and Podar Jumbo Kids)

]]>Better control your blood pressurehttp://www.deccanherald.com/content/462411/better-control-your-blood-pressure.html
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/462411/better-control-your-blood-pressure.htmlFri, 27 Feb 2015 17:25:56 +0530Nicholas Bakalar, Feb 28, 2015, NYTNSLowering blood pressure can significantly reduce the risk for many of the complications of type 2 diabetes, a review of data from 40 trials involving more than 1,00,000 people with diabetes has found.

Diabetics are more vulnerable to the effects of hypertension than otherwise healthy people. Recent guidelines suggest that a systolic blood pressure (the top number) of 140 millimetres of mercury is a good goal for people with diabetes, but the new study found that 130 or even lower may be better.

The analysis, published in JAMA, found that a 10-point lowering from 140 was associated with a 13 percent reduction in the risk for death. They found the risk of coronary heart disease declined by 12 percent, and the risk of stroke by 26 percent.

The 10-point lowering was also associated with a 13 percent reduction in retinopathy (a cause of blindness in people with diabetes) and a 17 percent reduction in albuminuria, an indication of kidney problems.

An author of the study, Dr Kazem Rahimi, an associate professor of cardiovascular medicine at Oxford, said that whether it was beneficial to aim for a level even lower than 130 was unknown. But, he said, "If you are diabetic with a reading of 135 and not taking medication for high blood pressure, you are likely to benefit from taking it." ]]>Healthy ways to fasthttp://www.deccanherald.com/content/462410/healthy-ways-fast.html
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/462410/healthy-ways-fast.htmlFri, 27 Feb 2015 17:18:41 +0530Shalini, Feb 28, 2015Whatever your reason for fasting, religious or otherwise, take care that it is carried out safely and does not result in health issues. Here are some tips to help you observe a fast in a healthy way:

One of the most unpleasant effects of a fast does not come from lack of food, but from a lack of fluids. The solution is to drink as much water as possible before the fast. Beware of beer or other alcoholic beverages; they will only dehydrate you. Water or fruit juices are the safest options.

Don't overstuff yourself before the fast. Many people seem to think that eating a lot the day before will compensate for not eating on the day of the fast. However, this is not true.

Plan your fast in advance. If you suffer from chronic health conditions, it is better to consult your doctor.

You may have fruits like apple, guava, papaya and banana. They will keep you energised. If you get hyperacidity due to citrus fruits on regular days, you may avoid them completely during the fast.

Drink a lot of fluids like water, fruit juice, tender coconut and buttermilk. Also, nuts can give you instant energy and keep you full for a long time. Vegetable soups, especially of pumpkin or bottle gourd, are very nourishing.

Try and avoid strenuous physical activity. This way you will be able to retain your energy all day.

After fasting for an entire day, instead of a having a huge meal or large amount of calories, have a bowl of dates or fruits.

Fasting can be a challenge for anyone, but it can be especially difficult for someone with diabetes. A diabetic should try to avoid fasting, however if one is very much determined, he or she should do it smartly.

Pregnancy is indeed a happy phase for couples. And for pregnancy to occur, there must be good levels of fertility, which is the ability to conceive. However, when this is not fulfilled and there are complications related to one's pregnancy, the journey becomes painful and fearful.

Prolonged cycles of fertility treatments and medications make matters worse. However, one must not be disheartened as there are various natural ways which can help in increasing a couple's fertility. Numerous studies have shown that specific changes towards lifestyle can help boost fertility, hike the chances of healthy ovulation and thus facilitate a healthy pregnancy.

Certain elements play a major role in determining fertility. For a female to be fertile, she must produce a viable egg in each menstrual cycle and the male should be able to produce potent and healthy sperms, which will fertilise the egg. Since there are many factors, which are associated with fertility, it is a little complicated and not as simplified as it may sound. Proper diet, adequate exercise and overall health are the most important factors which affect fertility.

If a woman wants to boost her fertility, one of the most important things is to have regular supervision to determine when is she most fertile. There are various ways through which one's fertility can be monitored. Starting with checking the basal body temperature will help the female know exactly when she is ovulating. Fertility monitors available in the market can also be purchased to track the conception dates.

Diet dictatesEating right plays a great role in fertility. A balanced diet will help regulate hormones, nourish the reproductive system and help in maintaining the right weight, which can impact fertility. Women who are overweight and underweight face hassles in getting pregnant as their body fat levels impact the production of sex hormones (oestrogen and progesterone). It is equally essential to include certain vitamins and minerals in the diet, which must comprise the following:

Calcium and Vitamin D: Regular dose of these nutrients have been found to help increase levels of male fertility.

Vitamin C and antioxidants: These help in preventing defects in sperms and boosting motility in them. They also reduce stress on the egg and reproductive organs of female. It should also be known that there are certain foods and chemicals that should be avoided while one is trying to get pregnant:

Alcohol: Consumption of alcohol causes up to 50 percent reduction in fertility. It also reduces the sperm count and increases the abnormality in sperm production.

One can also try taking the following herbs, as they are natural fertility medications that have been used since ancient times-

Dong Quai: This is a Chinese fertility herb. It is used to solve menstrual problems. It also balances the oestrogen level in the body.

Chaste berry: This herb helps in increasing fertility by stimulating the pituitary gland, which is responsible for producing the sex hormones. It also balances the sex hormone levels in the body.

Essential exercise Adequate amount of exercise can help in treating fertility. Mixing balanced diet and essential nutrients with exercise will help in maintaining a healthy body weight.

Extra fat in body will increase the level of oestrogen in females, causing disturbances in the fertility cycle.

Exercise helps in burning the extra body fat, which in turn allows hormones to return to normal level. However, it should be kept in mind that over exercising is also not good, as it can actually hamper fertility. One can try doing low-impact aerobic workouts like cycling, walking and swimming.(The author is IVF & infertility specialist, Advance Fertility and Gynaecology Centre, New Delhi)

]]>All in the eyeshttp://www.deccanherald.com/content/462407/all-eyes.html
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/462407/all-eyes.htmlFri, 27 Feb 2015 16:23:03 +0530Dr Balakrishna Shetty, Feb 28, 2015KERATOCONUS Dr Balakrishna Shetty tells you about a lesser-known eye illness, which is known to affect quite a few teenagers and young adults.

Keratoconus is a progressive eye disorder which usually begins in the teenage or early adulthood and may occur in one or both the eyes. In keratoconus, the normally round, dome-shaped cornea becomes thin and develops a cone-like bulge, causing distortion in vision. The condition makes certain activities like driving and working on a computer difficult and even risky.

In its earliest stages, keratoconus causes slight blurring, distorted vision and heightened sensitivity to glare and light. Frequent changes in eyeglass prescription is another common and early symptom of keratoconus. Yet it may take years before the condition gets diagnosed.

A number of factors have been attributed to causing keratoconus. However, till date, no specific reason has been identified behind its occurrence. Having certain inherited diseases or genetic conditions such as Down syndrome and a family history of keratoconus increase the chances of developing the disorder. It is recommended that parents with keratoconus must get their children regularly screened for the disorder right from their teen years. Depending upon the severity of keratoconus, a number of treatment modalities are available, which include:

Rigid contact lenses: If keratoconus is diagnosed early, the most common treatment is the use of rigid contact lenses.They correct the irregularity of corneal structure, thereby allowing the patient to have better quality vision. One must make sure to get the rigid lenses fitted by an eye specialist as ill-fitting hard lenses can further damage the cornea. Moreover, regular check-ups are essential for refitting or resizing of the lenses.

Corneal collagen cross-linking: It is based on collagen cross-linking with ultraviolet A and riboflavin (Vitamin B2, a photosensitising agent).This alters the intrinsic biomechanical property of the cornea, enhancing its strength by almost 300 percent. This increase in corneal strength has been shown to arrest the progression of keratoconus.

Intacs: They are thin, plastic, semi-circular rings, which are inserted into the mid layer of the cornea. These corneal inserts or implants flatten and correct the corneal bulge and improve vision. Intacs are a minimally-invasive surgical option for the treatment and are designed for long-term vision correction. They are very effective in treating mild and moderate cases of keratoconus. However, depending upon the severity of the condition, the patient may also require to wear spectacles or contact lenses for functional vision.

Corneal transplant: This is a surgical procedure, reserved for severe cases where vision cannot be improved by other treatments. It involves replacing the scarred and damaged cornea with the donor cornea.

(The author is senior ophthalmologist & chairman, Devi Eye Hospital, Bengaluru)]]>Healing at homehttp://www.deccanherald.com/content/462405/healing-home.html
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/462405/healing-home.htmlFri, 27 Feb 2015 16:17:04 +0530Dr Gaurav Thukral, Feb 28, 2015A LITTLE COMFORT Cancer is a struggle not only for those who are afflicted with it, but also their family. One of the ways to make it less traumatic is opting for certain treatment procedures at home, reckons Dr Gaurav Thukral

Rakesh Chandran is a retired bureaucrat whose wife was diagnosed with breast cancer two months ago. Their only son lives in the USA. On getting to know about his mother's ailment, he came to India, only to return in a week due to an urgent work assignment. Rakesh's wife developed severe complications after her cancer surgery and had to be kept in Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for three months. It was extremely difficult for 76-year-old Rakesh to take care of her all by himself.

Like Rakesh, 32-year-old Chitra Shah was devastated when she came to know that her husband was suffering from lung cancer. Chitra found it difficult to manage the situation. She alone had to look after her husband at the time of surgery. She had to drive him to a hospital that was 40 km from their home and for regular chemotherapy sessions thereafter. She quit her job in order to be by her husband's side and take care of her in-laws and two-year-old kid. Financial crunch put additional pressure on Chitra.

Rakesh figures that had there been a way to have an ICU set up at home, it would have given him some relief, while a homecare facility for chemotherapy and related procedures is something Chitra longs for. What Chitra and Rakesh are looking for seem to be an unreal thing to those who are waiting for the same facilities. Many who had been in a similar situation like Rakesh and Chitra can relate to them. While seeing their loved one grapple with the pain and trauma is unbearable for family members, taking them to the hospital for chemotherapy and other procedures, caring for them at home and providing them the emotional support they need also takes a toll on them.

Domestic care

It would surprise you to know that there are now facilities available by means of which cancer can be cared for at home. Such facilities are now being provided by homecare service providers who extend comprehensive and cohesive cancer treatment and care to the comfortable confines of one's home. They provide all types of chemotherapy to cancer patients. They employ nurses who are specialised to serve cancer patients and adept at performing adjuvant therapy administration, a procedure that requires expertise to inject a drug that increases the potential of anti-cancer treatment.

The nurses are also skilled at PICC line dressing, chemo port flush and neutropenic care. While PICC line dressing is a dressing that is done to prevent any wounds due to continuous chemotherapy sessions, chemo port flush is a procedure in which a port is used for chemotherapy to avoid any vein puncture. This port has to be flushed time and again to avoid any blockage in it. Also, in the process of radiation, healthy white blood cells of the body get killed, lowering the immunity and leading to neutropenia.

Oncological nurses are also adept at symptomatic management and pain relief management. The nurses are made to undergo specialised training in palliative (end of life) care, particularly to provide counselling and support to patients, resulting into their quicker recovery.

There are several reasons for which people prefer homecare to hospital care for cancer patients. One of the many is peace of mind. Just the feeling of being home is comforting and expedites the patients' recovery, as being around the family and friends boosts their morale. The personalised care offered through homecare addresses the unique need of every patient. Longer stay at hospitals lead to huge medical bills, thereby putting enormous pressure on family members. Compared with a hospital stay, homecare is cost effective as it cuts the indirect expenditures. Also, it lets family members resume a normal schedule, leaving their dear ones in trusted hands.

It also helps the doctors to constantly monitor their patients' condition. By keeping their doctors in the loop, homecare providers ensure medical intervention and supervision to the patient without any interruption. The doctors have complete control over the treatment of the patients. They provide extended reach to the patients' doctors in conditions where the patients find it difficult to travel to the hospital. Additionally, servicesprovided by them also free doctors at the hospitals, making them available for other patients.

The backbone of some of the premier homecare providers are its highly qualified and registered healthcare professionals. The company hires employees after conducting thorough background checks. A lot of emphasis is put on the nurses' training. The staff are also made to learn clinical skills such as infection control and life support. Post training, a clinical competency check is conducted to make sure if procedures are performed in accordance with the best practice guidelines or not.

Apart from all this, IT training is imparted to the nurses, who are given a mobile device such as a tablet or a smartphone so that the data captured by them could be sent to the doctors handling the respective cases in real time after the clinical evaluation by the teams at back end. The personalised approach and IT-enabled operations encourage the doctor and patients or their family members to have greater control over the disease and its treatment.

Oncologists in India, too, are finding such services noteworthy, and recommend it to their patients. Cancer patients go through a lot of emotional trauma. It is no less tedious for the patients' family members. This is where homecare facilities can step in, making life a little easier for them.(The author is head, medical services, HealthCare at Home)

]]>The amazing avarekaluhttp://www.deccanherald.com/content/462403/amazing-avarekalu.html
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/462403/amazing-avarekalu.htmlFri, 27 Feb 2015 16:09:14 +0530Usha S, Feb 28, 2015It is time to try different recipes of avarekalu (cow pea). It is the special vegetable of this season, available in many parts of Karnataka. The seasonal avarekalu is available aplenty now and gives ideas for many recipes to provide some variety to your daily fare.

Avarekalu saru (rasam)

Separate avarekalu from the bean and clean it. Steam it or pressure cook it with adequate water. Take the soft avarekalu in a small bowl and mix it with finely grated coconut. Grind them along with the required quantity of tamarind paste and a little jeera. One or two grains of pepper adds to the taste. Add this to the other portion of avarekalu along with rasam powder and salt. Boil this content for some time. Season the preparation with some mustard seeds fried in a small quantity of oil. Add a pinch of asafoetida and a small quantity of jaggery. Garnish with fresh curry leaves and coriander leaves to enhance the taste. Serve hot with rice.

Avarekalu huli (sambar)

Pressure cook the avarekalu along with tur dal. Prepare fresh sambar powder. This can be done by frying byadgi chillies along with coriander, cumin seeds, curry leaves, chana dal and urad dal. One or two pepper corns can be added. Add grated coconut to this mix along with tamarind paste and finely grind the ingredients. This can be added to pre-cooked avarekalu. Boil the mixture after adding salt to taste. Season the preparation with fried mustard seeds in oil, mixed with a pinch of asafoetida. Do not forget to add a small quantity of jaggery for taste. You can even add vegetables of your choice, like brinjal, for instance, to this sambar.

Avarekalu upma

Pre-cook avarekalu. Fry rice upma soji in a deep pan until it turns slightly brownish. Keep it separately. Take some oil in the pan and fry mustard seeds along with a small quantity of chana dal and urad dal. Add a little asafoetida and green chillies to the taste. Add water to this mixture (normally three times the quantity of soji used). Keep it boiling. During this time, add pre-cooked avarekalu and salt to taste. When water starts boiling, add fried soji along with finely grated coconut powder. Mix it thoroughly until the rava is softened and water is dried up. Top it with curry leaves and coriander leaves. Add lemon to enhance the taste. Hot upma is ready to serve.

Avarekalu roti

In Karnataka, rotis made out of rice flour and ragi flour are very common. Adding pre-cooked avarekalu adds a zing to the taste. Prepare the batter of rice or ragi flour by mixing it with finely grated coconut power, a little ginger paste, salt and pre-cooked avarekalu. Prepare thin rotis on a hot pan and serve the roasted avarekalu roti with mint chutney.

Winter is almost drawing to a close. It is time to pack and stack up all those warm clothes and rugs until this time next year. Dry cleaning them is certainly an easy option. Even though it comes with a hefty bill, more often than not, it is not even cleaned well. Faded portions, partial stains and sometimes even damages are noticed only when you're wearing the clothing item the next time around.

But, if you follow certain ground rules while taking care of your woollen clothes, you can be sure that they will last you for a lifetime. Never store your woolies without washing them. No matter how expensive or of what superior quality, knitwear can lose its shape and elongate in an ugly manner during the process of washing and drying if not handled properly. If your woollen wear and rugs are branded, you should follow the instructions on the label. If not, try sticking to these little notes on caring for your woollens:

Extra fibres

First check the garments, quilts and rugs for snags or unraveled stitches and set them right.

Some woolies have a tendency for pilling and have tiny blobs of yarn emerging from the fabric. You could lay them out flat on a mat and pick them out gently with your fingers.

If there are way too many. you could brush them gently and quickly, lengthways. Do it with a stiff sponge initially and proceed to remove the woollen balls with your fingers.

Check for stains. Lay the garment flat on an acrylic mat, wet that specific area and apply a gentle detergent on the reverse side of the stain. Take care not to rub or squeeze that portion.

Colour fastness

Usually dark colours have a tendency to run. Check whether the colours run, by soaking one edge of the garment in water and pressing an old white cloth on it. Such clothes should be washed separately.

Work a rich lather with a gentle detergent or a mild shampoo in lukewarm water and soak the reversed woollens for an hour or two.

Lay out the garment flatly on the washing stone and gently tease out the dirt by pressing the knitwear. Never rub or wring them.

If you happen to use the washing machine, place the garment in a loosely-tied cloth bag or pillow case to prevent the garment from getting out of shape. Wash it on a short fast cycle.

Rinse them thoroughly so that they are free of the detergent with several changes of water.

Cleaning & drying

Leave the rinsed wet woollens for fifteen minutes in the empty bucket or on the washing stone till the excess water drains away.

If you want to hasten the process of drying, spread a clean, dry and large towel on the garment and roll them together to soak up the moisture. You could repeat the process with another towel if necessary.

Choose a spot away from direct sunlight and spread the woollens on a plastic mat or a clean flat surface without wringing or squeezing the material.

When it is semi-dry, pat the garment back to its original shape and leave it alone till it dries up completely.

Once the major task of washing is over, it is time to store them safely. Never hang your knitwear in the wardrobe as their weight will cause them to stretch out of shape. Moreover, dust can damage woollens. Fold them minimally, roll them up and store them in a closed drawer, container or closet with a packet of flower dust or some camphor to keep them fragrant until you want to use them again.

Given that they keep you warm during those chilly mornings and nippy nights, the effort is well worth it.

]]>Seven super foodshttp://www.deccanherald.com/content/462401/seven-super-foods.html
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/462401/seven-super-foods.htmlFri, 27 Feb 2015 15:55:49 +0530Dr Kiran Lohia, Feb 28, 2015FORYOURSKIN Believe it or not, there is a strong link between what you eat and how you look. Dr Kiran Lohia urges you to include some super foods into your diet for a healthier, more beautiful you.

It is normal for you to be worried about that lone pimple on your forehead or that dry patch on your cheek. It is also common for you to blame the inefficiency of your face cream or zit remover, causing you to change them frequently. But it is not often that you would have thought of amending your food habits. So, how about adding some proven goodies to your diet? Foods that will cleanse your skin from the inside, making it naturally radiant.

Chocolates

Who'd have thought that chocolate could be considered part of a nutritious diet? Well, you are in luck, because dark chocolate contains lots of flavonoids. These are a super active type of antioxidants, which means that they help prevent free radical damage from the environment and pollution. Not only will flavonoids prevent your skin from ageing, they can also be effective in counteracting some of the negative oxidative effects of the sun's UV rays. (Don't get too excited though; you still have to wear your sunscreen, no matter how much chocolate you eat). However, remember, chocolate should be pure for the best results, so dark chocolate is the best kind to eat. One square is more than enough to get some antioxidant action, without packing on the pounds.

Walnuts

This super food has ultra vital omega-3 fatty acids, an extremely important lipid that is necessary to maintain the skin barrier, hydrate it and make it more supple and pliant. And, as an added benefit, omega-3 fatty acids are fantastic for cardiovascular health and have recently been shown to reduce one's risk of cancer. Have about eight to ten walnuts a day to get the benefits of this active nut, without having to worry about the extra calories.

Kiwis

The unsung heroes of vitamin sources, kiwis pack a powerful punch of Vitamin C more than any other fruit. Vitamin C is a vital ingredient that is important in two functions. Firstly, it is needed for the production of collagen, which is a protein that keeps the skin tight and firm. Second, it is a potent antioxidant, helping to counteract all the damage that your skin suffers from, courtesy the pollution, the sun and the environment.

Sweet potatoes

Not only does this miracle vegetable taste good, it is also a good source of Vitamin A, which helps your healthier skin resurface by making old skin cells self-exfoliate. It also enhances the skin's colour and appearance, giving you a healthy glow.

Sunflower seeds

These little guys look innocuous, but they are super strong providers of Vitamin E, which is a fat-soluble activator that your body cannot produce on its own. It is essential to eat sunflower seeds to get the added benefit of a powerful antioxidant. Vitamin E can help prevent premature ageing and reduce DNA damage. And, in the long term, it can reduce your risk of sunburns.

Oats

This food item works in two surprising ways. First of all, it is low-glycemic, meaning that it does not spike your blood sugar very much. High-glycemic foods can worsen the risk of wrinkles and acne. Second, it has a natural plant chemical that prevents damage to your skin, while also soothing irritations. So, don't forget your bowl of oatmeal for that flawless skin.

Avocados

A favourite in Mexico, avocados are full of healthy fats known as monounsaturated fat. These lipids help keep your skin hydrated so that you maintain your healthy glow. Avocados can also reduce the damage that UVA and UVB rays cause to the skin. Also, the healthy monounsaturated fats maintain vital hydration for your epidermis. Containing omega-9 fats like oleic acid, these actives also help regenerate damaged skin cells while reducing facial redness and irritation. Add it into your salads or sandwiches to enjoy this skin-healthy treat!

Watching what you drink

Water is necessary for life, as we all know. But when you drink less than eight glasses of water in a day, your body can get dehydrated, resulting in drier and duller skin. For proper hydration, drink 10-12 glasses a day, so that you can get your body's water balance in check.

And, if you add lemon, you will get an extra Vitamin C boost, thereby fulfilling your nutrition needs. Vitamin C is vital for collagen synthesis and also to protect your skin from the sun. Its antioxidant effects are well-known in dermatology. They protect you from free radical damage.

Also, remember that green tea contains ideal antioxidants, which can provide a healthy boost for your skin. With natural catechins and free radical counteracting actives, this magical Chinese drink is probably the reason why Asians have naturally beautiful skin and hair. Drink green tea throughout the day to cleanse your system. And see the glow.

As much as you like drinking milk and think it is nutritious, remember that cow's milk is detrimental to the skin. Essentially, every dermatologist agrees that dairy is the worst for skin. Why is this?

Cow's milk, just like human milk, is chock-full of hormones. Those hormones cause acne, pigmentation and can even worsen ageing. Instead, use almond milk. Almond milk is full of natural proteins and Vitamin E, ultimately giving you nutrition without the hormonal imbalance.

]]>Fifty shades of bluehttp://www.deccanherald.com/content/461028/fifty-shades-blue.html
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/461028/fifty-shades-blue.htmlFri, 20 Feb 2015 16:17:35 +0530Jisha Krishnan, Feb 21, 2015,DHNS"Have you ever seen fish drown in water?" she asks, attempting a smile. "Not really," I answer."Well, they do. Just because they can't live without water doesn't mean that water is all they need to live. If there isn't enough dissolved oxygen in the water, or say, the water is too polluted, the very thing that keeps them alive can kill them," she says.

The conversation over the next hour touches on myriad topics - philosophy, psychology, medications, running, literature, writing, music, aspirations, fears, expectations. And depression. It's been a little over a year since Megha (that's what we'll call her) was diagnosed with depression. There was no reason, at least none that she was aware of, for her prolonged sense of listlessness and hopelessness.

"I had (almost) everything that a regular 24-year-old would want in life. Loving parents, friends to die for, a promising career&hellip;yet there was this emptiness. I wish I could put it in words&hellip;there was this sense of uneasiness all the time, some days the palpitations were so bad that I would want to kill myself.

Finally, after much agony, I agreed to visit a psychiatrist last year," she says. Incidentally, very few in our country manage to make that all-important visit. According to a 2011-study based on the World Health Organization's World Mental Health Survey Initiative, India recorded the highest rate of major depression in the world, at 36 percent.

However, the number of people seeking professional help continues to be miniscule. Blame it on the social stigma, lack of awareness, or popular misconceptions about mental health - the sad fact remains that depression is often undiagnosed and untreated.

Recently, when Bollywood actress Deepika Padukone spoke to a newspaper about how she underwent treatment for depression, the revelation caused quite a stir. "What reason does she have to be depressed?" was an oft-asked question. "See, money can't buy happiness," said some, smugly. For Megha, it was just comforting to know that she was not alone. Not a state of mind

"What's perceived as depression and what's clinically diagnosed as depression are two different entities," says Dr Bhupinder Choudhry, consultant psychiatrist, Manipal Hospital, Bengaluru. While we loosely equate the term with a low-mood or sense of sadness, clinical depression is a medical condition that can hamper day-to-day life.

"It's characterised by lack of energy, change in appetite, reduced concentration, poor memory, suicidal thoughts, loss of interest in otherwise pleasurable activities. It's not a momentary feeling, but a pervasive one - that lasts for a minimum of two weeks," he explains.

The biggest question when it comes to depression is: why does it happen? The answer lies in the interplay of one's genetic makeup and environmental factors.

Postpartum depression, for instance, is believed to be experienced by 10 to 15 percent of women after childbirth. Before you dismiss it as "baby blues", please bear in mind that the condition can not only cause much harm to the new mother, but also the newborn.

"The problem is that you hear about all these amazing things that motherhood can do to you. But in reality you are sleep deprived, your hormones are all over the place, the baby needs to be fed every two hours, burped, cleaned, put to sleep, and then, it's time for the next feed," says Nandita Puranik, recounting her experience with depression three years ago.

The worst part, she confides, was that she couldn't really talk about it to anyone. "Because that would just make me such an awful person, such a terrible mother," she reasons. There were days when she would ensure that she kept away from the baby as much as possible. "I had these dark thoughts; I didn't want to harm her, though," she says.

If there's one thing that Nandita could change about the past, she says, it would be to have the courage to seek some professional help during that dark phase. "I lived almost a year of my life in the shadow of sorrow. I lost out on so many precious moments of my daughter's life&hellip;So, last year when my sister had a baby, I ensured that I was there by her side. The hospital also had a support group for new mothers - a platform to help them voice their concerns and fears as well as share a few laughs and parenting tips," she says.

According to the 2011 World Mental Health Survey Initiative, which was based on interviews with 89,000 people across 18 countries with different income levels, women are twice as likely to suffer from depression as compared to men.

Mind the men, tooThat's not to say that the men are immune. In fact, an Australian study shows that depression actually hits fathers and mothers equally in the first year of a baby's life. Experts agree that the hormones are only a part of the cause; the condition is often aggravated by stress, fatigue and a sense of isolation.

In his candid memoir, The Scent of Dried Roses, Tim Lott describes depression as "the illness of identity". And that can affect just about anyone. From adolescents to professionals, homemakers to the elderly, the Richie Rich to the poorest of poor.

"Also, it can happen without any precipitating factors. There doesn't always have to be a stressful event or reason for depression to strike," maintains Dr Bhupinder. In other words, that super successful entrepreneur, the gorgeous actress, the manager at office, the maid at home - everyone is susceptible to depression. Some more than others.

Denial makes depression all the more difficult. It's best to seek timely help. "Medications and cognitive behavioural therapy can help treat depression. The effects will be visible within a month or so, but the key is to continue with the treatment till the doctor so advises," he says. Abrupt discontinuation poses a huge risk of relapse, making it more difficult to treat the condition, once it becomes resistant to drugs.

Self-medication is another no-no. A new research has found that people who frequently pop painkillers are more prone to depression. Dr Vinu Kumar, raw vegan diet and life coach, also adds junk food to that list. "For most people, the easiest way to get out of depression is to eat junk. Sadly, that only makes the problem worse," she says.

Though there are no conclusive studies yet on the effect of food on depression, Dr Vinu is convinced that a nutritious diet - think lots of salads and fresh fruits - is the best way to keep the blues at bay. "We no longer eat food, but food-like products. Naturally, there's this toxic sledge within us that needs to be cleansed, otherwise it'll sap us of all energy," she maintains.

Unfortunately, there's no simple lab test that can confirm the diagnosis. It calls for an expert analysis. "However, in adolescents as well as patients in their 40s, doctors do recommend certain lab tests to rule out conditions caused by hormonal changes - such as hypothyroidism, for instance," says Dr Ravi Kumar, MD, Metropolis Healthcare, Bengaluru.

Whether it's a symptom or a clinical condition, depression calls for immediate medical attention. It could be a case of vitamin deficiency or high cholesterol levels, or perhaps, depressive psychosis. Let the experts do their job. And, to borrow some beautiful words from Tim Lott: "those who do not know where they fit, who lose faith in the myths they have painstakingly created for themselves", there's light at the end of the tunnel. ]]>Stop the juiceshttp://www.deccanherald.com/content/461027/stop-juices.html
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/461027/stop-juices.htmlFri, 20 Feb 2015 16:09:54 +0530Kerry Potter, Feb 21, 2015, The TelegraphI wake at 3am, head pounding, dripping in sweat, shaking and itching all over. I know I'm going to be sick, but when I try to walk to the bathroom, I feel faint and lights start flashing in front of my eyes. I crawl instead, vomit and crawl back to bed. My mind is muddled, but one thought makes its way through the fug: am I dying?

No, I'm 48 hours into a juice fast. On each of the past two days, I've drunk four small vegetable and fruit juices and eaten precisely nothing. This equates to a daily calorie content of 400, less than a quarter of my usual intake.

Downstairs, the people running the retreat I'm attending take one look at my grey, frightened face and do a pinprick blood-sugar test on my finger. It reads 3.6 millimoles per litre, which is low; the normal range is between four and eight. I'm experiencing - as a variety of doctors, dietitians and nutritionists later tell me - hypoglycaemia.

"A blood-sugar reading under four means you're having a hypo," the NHS dietitian Nicky Vernede, who works for Oxford Health Foundation Trust, says. "That should only really happen when you have diabetes. That's low for a normal, healthy person. Two consecutive days of 400 calories is extreme fasting - your body would have been in complete shock."

Back at the retreat, I return to my room, climb into bed and am given some apple juice and - rejoice! - solids: glucose tablets and crackers with hummus. I take a few cautious sips and nibbles and instantly feel better. My eyelids become heavy and when I awake several hours later, I am human again.

The juice fast may not have agreed with me, but there are a lot of evangelists out there. Of the 15 people on my retreat, I was the only one to react in that way. Many were regulars and swore by the regime, returning home pounds lighter, energised, deeply rested and with glowing skin and sparkling eyes.

Food is a status symbol like never before, and there's no middle ground when it comes to the obsession with what we put into our mouths. It's either all (I give you the fetishisation of home baking and the ubiquitous cupcake) or nothing (the rise of fast-based diets). The claims made by juicing proponents are as big as the money involved: these elixirs can purportedly do anything from aiding weight loss and helping skin conditions to curing arthritis and cancer.

The medical community, however, is less enthusiastic. "So many people seem to find some benefit from it and there are so many books about it, you think maybe there is something in it. But everything I know about it suggests it's not a good idea. I've heard the anecdotes, but show me some bloody evidence that it works," Michael Mosley, the doctor and television documentary maker, says.

But hold on, this is the same Michael Mosley who made the 2012 Horizon documentary that offered a compelling, science-based argument for intermittent fasting, before going on to write the bestseller The Fast Diet, a fasting-based eating plan working on the 5:2 model. This involves eating normally five days per week and fasting (well, consuming 500-600 calories) on the other two.

"I'd never recommend juice on a fasting day," he says. "It's about solid food." The problem with juice fasts, Michael says, is the lack of protein. "You need protein to fill you up. Unless you have adequate amounts of it, within 24 hours your body starts to cannibalise itself and get protein from your muscles.

A juice diet is zero protein, so you will lose a small amount of fat and a large amount of muscle. And if you lose muscle your metabolic rate will slow down." Which, if you're trying to lose weight, is hardly welcome news.Science behind sugar

Then there's the lack of fibre in juice. Dr Robert Lustig is the author of Fat Chance: The Hidden Truth About Sugar, Obesity and Disease and has spent 16 years treating childhood obesity. "Eat your fruit and veg, don't drink it," he says. "There are two types of fibre, soluble and insoluble.

When you juice, the soluble fibre is still there, but the insoluble fibre is sheared to smithereens by the blades. Consumed together these two fibres form a gel in your intestine, which limits the rate of absorption of sugar. That's a good thing - it means all the sugar isn't delivered to the liver at once, because when that happens the liver is going to turn it into fat. But when you juice, this gel can't be formed." The result is a spike in blood-sugar levels. "If you look at the blood-sugar rise after eating an apple compared with drinking apple juice, the latter creates a much higher rise," Dr Robert says.

Fructose - the type of sugar found in fruit and many processed foods - is the big enemy here, according to Dr Robert's research. Glucose is removed from the bloodstream by insulin, but there's no equivalent hormone for fructose. That job falls solely to the liver, which, if overwhelmed by fructose (say, if you're drinking gallons of juice), can convert it to liver fat. This increases the likelihood of insulin resistance, furred arteries and heart disease.

The other problem with fructose is that it suppresses leptin, the hormone that tells you when you are full, so you don't know when to stop. Dr Robert acknowledges there is a big difference between juicing vegetables (which are low in sugar) and fruit, but is unequivocal in his belief that juicing fruit is akin to drinking cola.

Public Health England's (PHE) chief nutritionist, Dr Alison Tedstone, also points out the dangers of dental decay from too much juice, as the acid strips tooth enamel - something I've heard anecdotally: a couple of friends gave up juicing because their teeth hurt. "Detoxing is a nonsense term; it's not a physiological thing," says obesity researcher Zo&euml; Harcombe. "There's a lot of money in the juicing industry - all those retreats and fancy machines. But people are deluded."

As for me, the probability of another juice cleanse hovers around zero. I might buy a green juice when once I'd have grabbed a Diet Coke, and I do occasionally knock up an apple, kale and cucumber concoction to help face a hangover, since the idea of eating greens with a bacon sandwich seems ridiculous. But whether this makes me healthy or delusional, I'm still not entirely sure.

]]>Preemies outgrow asthma in timehttp://www.deccanherald.com/content/461025/preemies-outgrow-asthma-time.html
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/461025/preemies-outgrow-asthma-time.htmlFri, 20 Feb 2015 16:04:27 +0530Nicholas Bakalar, Feb 21, 2015, NYTNSParents of premature babies worry about many things, including an increased risk of asthma. But a large Danish study has found that asthma, common in premature babies, disappears as the children grow older. By the time they are adults, their risk of asthma is no greater than that of babies born full term.

Researchers combed birth and health data on 1.8 million people born from 1980 to 2009, checking for gestational age and neonatal respiratory problems. The study, published in PLOS One, found that 27 percent of infants born earlier than 27 weeks required asthma medication during childhood, compared with 18 percent of those born at 28-31 weeks, 13 percent at 32-36 weeks, and nine percent at full-term.

But after controlling for socio-economic status, maternal asthma, multiple birth and other factors, they found that by adolescence, the association had weakened, and by adulthood 2.4 percent of the former preemies required medication compared with 2.1 percent of those born full-term, a clinically insignificant difference.

"There are more and more preemies," said the lead author, Dr Anne Louise Damgaard, a researcher at the University of Copenhagen, "and we don't really know what happens to them as they get older. But up to age 31, their lungs are pretty healthy. It's possible that the differences may become more evident as they age."

]]>Have a hearty lifehttp://www.deccanherald.com/content/461023/have-hearty-life.html
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/461023/have-hearty-life.htmlFri, 20 Feb 2015 16:00:32 +0530Dr Priyank Bhatt, Feb 21, 2015, DHNSIn recent years, there has been an increase in the number of people who suffer from heart diseases. This is largely an outcome of the disorganised urban lifestyle that people lead.

It is a myth that heart problems occur with the onset of old age. But the fact is that it affects children and youngsters as much as it is a problem for aged adults. Fortunately, this is a risk that can be eliminated by simply following a healthy diet plan along with some regular exercise.

It is advisable to perform basic breathing exercises that improve blood circulation and oxygen supply to the body by strengthening the cardio-vascular system.

Simple health tips for a healthy heart:

Health foods have just as much variety as junk foods. The right kind of ingredients put together can help turn even simple salads into delicacies.

The best way to avoid unhealthy supplements is to understand the nutritional information of the food products.

People should try to cut down on consumption of saturated fats and trans-fats.

Switch to healthier alternatives like canola, olive, safflower, or sunflower oil instead of using solid fat like butter and margarine.

Try to snack on more protein-rich products such as dry fruits, nuts and vegetables. Avoid maida-based deep-fried snacks.

The first step to a healthy heart is to reduce cholesterol by using as little oil as possible while cooking.

It is important to follow a healthy food intake that includes fibers, minerals and proteins.

Avocados and olive oil are the best way to include some healthy fats in the diet.

Replace regular pasta with whole-grain one to enjoy a tasty as well as a fibre-rich meal.

(The author is consultant, cardiovascular & thoracic surgeon, Fortis Hospital, Bengaluru)]]>When surgery workshttp://www.deccanherald.com/content/461022/when-surgery-works.html
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/461022/when-surgery-works.htmlFri, 20 Feb 2015 15:47:19 +0530Dr Abhay Agrawal, Feb 21, 2015, DHNSDiabetes mellitus (DM) is a worldwide epidemic, which is on the rise without much cure. Besides, it's associated with a number of short and long-term complications resulting in devastating late complications and reduced life expectancy.

is a major cause of morbidity in patients with diabetes mellitus. The incidence of blindness, for example, is 25 times higher in diabetic patients than in non-diabetic people.

If all complications of DM were combined, individuals with intensive diabetes management would experience 15.3 more years of life without significant microvascular or neurologic complications of DM, compared with individuals who received standard therapy. This translates into an additional 5.1 years of life expectancy for individuals in the intensive diabetes management group.

Eighty percent of patients with type 2 diabetes are obese or overweight, and weight reduction is one of the most efficient ways to achieve control of this illness. However, it is difficult to achieve normal blood sugar level readings with just the conventional treatments comprising diet, exercise, oral tablets and insulin.

On the other hand, impressive improvement in diabetic status of patients undergoing bariatric and metabolic surgery has stimulated interest in medical science as a potential cure for type 2 diabetes.

Research shows there are intestinal hormones that have a striking effect on pancreas and insulin secretion, especially in response to food intake. Thus Ileal Transposition was devised - a laparoscopic operation that is proving very helpful in controlling diabetes, and avoiding future diabetic complications.

A long segment of ilium (ending portion of small intestine) if shifted to the upper small intestinal area, where food particles reaching immediately after the meal can cause an immediate secretion of a hormone, GLP-1, which acts on the B-cells of pancreas to secret insulin, to immediately control blood sugar. If there is no intake of food, this will not happen, so there is no danger of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).

Newer discoveries

It was originally thought that the control of diabetes was secondary to the resultant weight loss. However, more recently, it has been noted that insulin impairment is reversed merely days after a metabolic procedure and therefore, could not be solely due to the weight loss.

Ileal transposition takes around four hours and costs four to four-and-half lakh rupees. The patient can start walking the day after the operation and begin work in a week.

India has been declared the diabetic capital of the world. It is estimated that by 2025, India will be home to more than 80 million diabetics and most of these will be type 2 diabetics. Stress should be therefore laid on creating awareness of availability of the Ileal Transposition procedure as a cure to diabetes. The procedure should be able to do a lot of good for Indian diabetics.

This operation is ideal for surgical cure of diabetes in non-morbidly obese patients also, as there is no malabsorptive element leading to the weight loss. Patients can stop all medicines within few months, at times even within two to four weeks post the surgery. Good improvements are seen in their triglycerides, cholesterol and kidney functions as well as much relief in the case of leg pain.

Since there is no loss of intestinal length and no diversion of food, there are no long-term side-effects and no nutritional deficiency. The only lifestyle change required is that patients need to consume smaller portions of food at one time to enjoy a disease-free, longer and healthier life.

There is a role of Ileal Transposition for treatment of DM2 in non-morbidly obese patients. This procedure could resolve DM2 for patients who are facing serious life-threatening complications.

The developer, Okanagan Specialty Fruits, says it believes the nonbrowning feature will be popular with both, consumers and food service companies because it will make sliced apples more appealing. The feature could also reduce the number of apples discarded because of bruising.

But many executives in the apple industry say they worry that the biotech apples, while safe to eat, will face opposition from some consumers, possibly tainting the wholesome image of the fruit that reputedly "keeps the doctor away."

The Department of Agriculture, which approved the apples for commercial planting, said that it had considered these issues. However, it said that under the law, approval is based on whether a genetically modified crop poses a threat to other plants. The department determined that the apples posed no such risk.

The so-called Arctic apples - which will be available in the Granny Smith and Golden Delicious varieties - are genetically engineered in a way to suppress the production of an enzyme that causes browning when cells in the apple are injured, from slicing, for example.

Neal Carter, the president of Okanagan, said the apple had "a lot of silent supporters" and would be popular with the food service business. "I can't believe how many requests we've had just this morning to our website from people who want to buy trees," he said.Consumer and environmental groups, who say that genetically modified crops in general are not thoroughly tested for safety, were highly critical of the decision.

]]>Waves of wellnesshttp://www.deccanherald.com/content/461019/waves-wellness.html
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/461019/waves-wellness.htmlFri, 20 Feb 2015 15:34:01 +0530Bharat & Shalan Savur , Feb 21, 2015, DHNSYou don't have to buy anything new to feel festive. It's the newness that you evoke inside you that makes every day feel like a new beginning. Here's how:

Identify yourself wholly with wellness, never with illness. Identifying with robust health increases the flow of life-giving pranic energy. Talk, think, live, sleep health&mdash;nothing less. If prone to migraines, back aches, joint aches, evoke the body's healing power. Say, "Hey body, I need your help to let go of this pain. Listen, this pain is not your natural state. To relax, be pain-free, brim with joy&mdash;that's your true nature, my sweet friend. Be natural." When the pain goes, say, "Thank you for letting go of the discomfort."

Be tender about the past without delving into it - because where you delve is where you dwell. Be less coldly logical or rational in the present and live deeper, more sensitively from intuition and creativity. Always retain hope, not fear, for the future - all great and positive things are possible in that which is yet to be. Wish earnestly each day that everbody's life overflows with blessings.

Heal your medulla oblongata. It's the lower brainstem that fits neatly atop the spinal cord. It regulates involuntary functions&mdash;breathing, heart-rate, blood pressure. Masters call it the 'pranic doorway' - from where the life-force enters the body. Do this daily: Cup the back of your neck with your left palm. Cup the portion just above the nape with your right palm to cover the medulla oblongata. Close your eyes and say: "Heal-1, Heal-2&hellip;" upto " Heal-30." Your diastolic blood pressure is bound to drop.

Reserve your own space to meditate, read, write and be by yourself. The Brahma Kumaris put it beautifully: "Fish stay in water because they would die if they came out. The water is their world. The big world outside is nothing for them. Likewise, when I'm merged in an inner world of peace and contentment, I create a vibrational field around me that is my world. Then I am not interested in or affected by the negative energy around me. Today, let me stay in an atmosphere that keeps me alive."

Be ever ready to learn. Radio genius Marconi told his friend, "All my life I've been studying this matter, but there is one thing I simply cannot understand about the radio," said Marconi, "Why does it work?" Keep questioning. In living, in learning, watch life reveal its myriad mysteries.]]>Sweet madnesshttp://www.deccanherald.com/content/461017/sweet-madness.html
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/461017/sweet-madness.htmlFri, 20 Feb 2015 15:26:48 +0530Swati Kapur, Feb 21, 2015, DHNSIndians sure have a sweet tooth. And boy, do we like our desserts real sweet! However, with growing awareness about lifestyle-induced diseases, there's been a marked shift in how we cook and what we eat. Not just chefs all over India, but enthusiastic kitchen queens and kings, too, have been raising the bar, by whipping up healthy fusion desserts. East meets West

Following recipes to the T is quite a thing in itself. Newbie cooks are not even sure what the dish will turn out to be. Then how does one break through this limitation and try fusion experiments? Renowned pastry chef and LM100 member Johnny Iuzzini who recently showcased modern takes on Le Meridien's signature &eacute;clairs says, "Fusion is simple. All you need to do is feel the new ingredients, imbibe them and just blend keeping in mind their chemistry and flavours."

Johnny, on his recent visit to India, got inspired with local winter flavours of Delhi and came up with some interesting creations like jaggery ginger &eacute;clair, rose cardamom &eacute;clair and even tamarind and kalakand (a north Indian sweet) &eacute;clairs. "I've travelled to Le Meridien Munich, Bangkok, Dallas, Panama and now to Delhi and created absolutely new flavours based on my travels, newly-acquired tastes, local markets and flavours," he adds.

Indian chefs, too, whip up a storm when it comes to pleasing guests with global, local blends. Darjeeling is famous for its blends of teas. Chefs from Windamere, the colonial heritage hotel in Darjeeling, delicately infuse the local speciality tea flavours into old-time British recipes of cakes, muffins and pudding desserts, especially for their Christmas and New Year menu.

"We use only Castleton or Makaibari tea leaves and our exclusive coffee comes from the Baba Budan Hills of Chikkamagaluru in Karnataka. This adds to the authentic and delicate balance in taste," says Joy Rai, bakery head at Windamere.

Marriage in the Indian kitchenPastry chef Jaswant Singh from Heritage Village Resorts, Manesar, tries to convey a slice of heritage blended with cosmopolitan flavours. "We have gone all out to please our local and global guests by exploring flavours and ingredients. We present fusion desserts like gulab jamun tart, which is a sweet combination of Indian and western delicacies.

And then there's another kind of blend that breathes new life into rare and traditional delicacies. The idea is to marry age-old recipes with some new-age ingredients for an authentic twist in taste. "Nowadays, no one likes to have a plain barfi or a regular halwa after a meal. Discerning elite want to complete their meal with something, which can satiate their taste buds and comfort their sweet cravings, too.

Thus, a lot more than simple cooking has to go into the kitchen to come up with innovative ingredients and techniques," says Bharti Sanghi, a Delhi-based chef and entrepreneur. Some of her favourites include apple pista chhena pie and badam tartlets.

"Fusion cooking is always a nice idea as it allows you to follow your will and experiment freely. Just make sure to hold on to your traditional ingredients to get the right taste. It allows you to work on the shape and presentation.

For instance, one cannot have a cake or an apple pie always. So, add some creativity and you will come up with something new and interesting every time. For example, scoop a peach and fill it with chhena (curdled sweet milk) or garnish with grated chocolate and nougat. Fusion is all about experimentation, so feel free to try out new ingredients and techniques and stir up a delight each time," explains Bharti.

As you read up more about these interesting recipes, do make an effort to get your hands dirty with some of these innovative dishes!Tartlets Ingredients:

Put flour and salt in a bowl. Add butter to it. Add water gradually, until it becomes dough. Dough should just hold together, but should not be wet or sticky.

Turn out the dough onto a plastic wrap, press into a ball, and chill at least one hour before using. To form tartlet shells, lightly butter or spray the molds with vegetable oil. Roll the dough onto a lightly floured board to slightly less than 1/8-inch thickness. Cut the pastry slightly larger than the mold, press into pans, and cut away excess with your thumb. Repeat the process with rest of pastry.

Press the unbuttered pans on top of each of the pastry-filled pans. These act as weights and will prevent shrinkage and puffing while baking. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Bake the shells for 15 to 17 minutes.

Cool the shells on racks. Fill few tartlets with grated pistachio and few with boondi. Decorate them with silver cover and silver balls. They are now ready to be served.

Add cardamom, saffron and rose water. Then, in a dish, layer pistachio, then apple, then chhena. Decorate with slivers of almond, pistachio and saffron. Serve cold.

]]>Lighten and brighten 'em!http://www.deccanherald.com/content/461016/lighten-brighten-em.html
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/461016/lighten-brighten-em.htmlFri, 20 Feb 2015 15:19:34 +0530Shahnaz Husain,Feb 21, 2015, DHNSThe skin on our elbows and knees is thicker and darker than the rest of the body. Sometimes, they can present a problem, especially during the cold and dry season, by becoming excessively dry, dark and hard. At such times, they need special care.

The most appropriate time to pamper the skin with oils and moisture it needs is right after a bath. In fact, applying body lotions and creams soon after bathing, while the skin is still damp, helps to seal in the moisture.

Get yourself a hand and body lotion, or a rich cream, depending on the extent of dryness. A lemon-turmeric cream is helpful in treating cases of extreme dryness on the elbows and knees. Not only does it help in softening the skin, but also lightens skin colour over a period of time.

You would also need a loofah or a rough towel to give the skin a rub, after applying oils or soap. This helps smoothen rough skin and improve blood circulation to the skin surface. Rubbing the skin with a loofah or wash cloth is particularly helpful on rough areas like the knees and elbows. In winter, use soapless bath gels or glycerine soap.

Before your bath, take two lemon halves and rub them on the elbows and knees. Lemon helps lighten the skin colour. Adding sugar to lemon juice just before application also helps soften and exfoliate the skin. Wash off with plain water and then apply oil on the body and massage it into the skin.

Sesame seed (til) oil, vegetable oil, olive oil or sunflower oil can be used. While bathing, go easy on the soap and avoid very hot water.

Give the knees and elbows a rub with the loofah or towel. If the skin appears to be excessively hard, you can use a pumice stone, rubbing it gently on the skin.

But, do not use metal scrapers and scrubbers. Immediately after your bath, apply a body lotion while the skin is still damp. If the skin on the elbows and knees is excessively dry, use a thicker cream on them. Massage the cream into the skin on these areas. Turmeric powder or paste can also be mixed with milk and rubbed on the dark areas.

It is also a good idea to use a body scrub twice a week, especially on the elbows and knees. The scrub should be rubbed gently on the skin and then washed off with water. Over a period of time, it helps soften the skin.

Do it at home

Make a scrub at home, using rice flour and curd, with a pinch of turmeric. The mixture will remove dead cells and also help lighten skin colour.

You can also use lentils (dal) to make a body scrub. Soak urad dal or moong dal (without skin) in water overnight. Grind it with milk and use it to scrub the skin. Then wash thoroughly with water. In fact, this scrub can be used on the entire body, too. Milk helps remove tan over a period of time and also nourishes the skin.

Ripe papaya also helps soften the skin and get rid of dead cells. Papaya contains enzymes that help remove dead skin cells. Papaya pulp can be mixed with a little curd or lemon juice and rubbed on the elbows and knees. This will soften the skin and make the elbows and knees lighter.

Aloe vera gel or juice may also be applied. It helps in cases of sun damage and softens the skin, too. n You can also make your own body massage oil, using it on knees, elbows and the rest of the body. Mix almond oil with sunflower oil and add a few drops of rose or sandalwood essential oil. This leaves a pleasant fragrance and is much better than using commercially available perfumed massage oils.

Finally, do not forget that regularity is the keyword. If you give the skin daily care, it is bound to show positive results, isn't it?

Love doesn't have to be restricted to a day. You can continue to express your feelings in a thoughtful and meaningful manner by way of unique gifts. How about something unusual for the home? Something that guests will take a second look at, something that'll bring a smile to face of your significant other, something that lights up the special corner of your home.

If that's what's on your mind, The Great Eastern Home is just the perfect place for you. Select from a wide array of exotic d&eacute;cor items - think squirrel bowl set (in a combination of pewter and wood); Chinese men holding a tray (in bronze and gold painted); elegant book holder (in bronze and painted in gold colour, adding that extra sheen).Home is where the heart is, they say. Make sure yours is in a beautiful place. Style that's edgy

Industrial furniture, a rage today, is much sought after by the lovers of industrial decoration. This furniture allows for the creation of an atypical atmosphere. Understandably, it has become a must-have for the connoisseurs of art and d&eacute;cor.

So, it's time you give an edge to your home d&eacute;cor with TFR's new range of industrial furniture. Pleasing to the eye, karmic to the soul and naturally warm to the touch, the range will add authentic texture and design to any room, leaving you spellbound.

Made of solid wood and metal, the collection will enhance the entire space to make it look exceptionally beautiful. The warm and exotic look will provide unflustered weight to any space. These exclusive pieces are designed to enhance the look of your home's interior with a classy feel. It is time to change the way we thought, sought and bought furniture.

Put your feet up

Vrieti has introduced stylish recliners that offer the best of both worlds - supreme comfort and sleek good looks. Covered in leather upholstery that looks and exudes luxury, the recliner comes with a matching foot stool and has thick, padded cushioning that will fully support your back and legs.

Designed to provide versatility in any home, this multi-utility recliner is a perfect addition for living, lounge, informal and bedroom areas. Available in red and chocolate brown, the curved lines and soothing tones are used to enhance the contemporary look of any room.

These recliners are sure to add a sense of style and function to your space. For styling, add a throw on the foot stool to get a unique and visually-stunning effect. For people with distinctive taste, this is a chic way to transform your home.]]>Fashion Fixhttp://www.deccanherald.com/content/461014/fashion-fix.html
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/461014/fashion-fix.htmlFri, 20 Feb 2015 15:05:28 +0530Feb 21, 2015, DHNSTimeless appeal

Purveyor of fine handcrafted semi-precious jewellery, Just Jewellery has fashioned exquisite designer pieces of chandbaali earrings for women of today. Intrinsic craftsmanship, stunning designs and fine quality stones, along with an eye for detail and design has always been the forte of the brand and has seen it surviving evolving trends.

These dazzling chandbaali earrings have been crafted in a way that it lends the wearer an exuberant energy. Capturing the true majesty of nature, this collection embodies all that is beautiful and adds a splash of colour and stylishness to the subtly sophisticated creation.

A break from the regular is a refreshing change. And this signature earring collection is sure to make a woman look out-of-the-world on all her special occasions. The superlative elegance and charisma has added a new dimension in the category of classy semi-precious designer jewellery.Retro look

If your heart beats for everything that is vintage, this month it's time to go retro in eyewear with Maui Jim's Kahoma - the latest addition to the sunglass maker's attractive line of retro-inspired sunglasses.

Named after Kahoma Valley on West Maui in Hawaii, the style gives you ample reasons to head outdoor with the comfort and assurance of protected eyes with a classic evergreen eye gear.

The sunglasses come in a high-grade nylon frame, unique colours and Maui Jim's patented PolarizedPlus2 technology. With lens treatments and frames that are saltwater safe, the sunglasses are perfect for driving or relaxing on the beach.

It comes with a mid-sized wrap with wider temples for extra coverage and protection against wind, debris and the sun's harmful rays. Its modified wayfarer frame beautifully complements small oval or heart-shaped faces.Perfect blend

&raquo;Nargis, the house of ethnic fashion wear, has come up with their exquisite designer lehenga collection. Lehenga is the most favourite attire among women during festivals and weddings. The dominant style of the collection is monarchal and majestic with high-quality works like rich fabrics and bright regal colours.

The collection is available in a wide range of fabrics, styles, stones and designs to suit every individuals unique requirements. The mix of resham and zari work as well as vibrant colours with crystal works provides an eclectic look. It is a perfect blend of traditional Indian silhouettes with contemporary designs on a variety of fabrics such as nets, brocade, chiffon and chanderi.

It successfully blends the thread of traditionalism and modernity with the perfect combination of style, intricacy and opulence. Having crafted a unique signature style of their own - which is a fusion of Indian karigari such as zardozi, bandhani, and dabka work - the brand brings to life every woman's most coveted dream.

]]>That thing that never failshttp://www.deccanherald.com/content/459582/that-thing-never-fails.html
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/459582/that-thing-never-fails.htmlFri, 13 Feb 2015 16:04:50 +0530Feb 14, 2015:The media may change, the message doesn't. That feeling of deep affection remains the same, whether you convey it in a tech-savvy manner or the good ol' way, writes Reethika Azariah Kuruvilla.

Back in the day, love was literally like a box of chocolates - you never knew what you'd get when you first said 'hello'. Fast forward to today: the second you meet somebody remotely interesting, you find yourself (provided you're not already wearing a pair of those exclusive Google glasses) checking your smartphone for access to his social networking profile and twitter handle. And voila! You know more about him than he's told you; you know if you have anything in common - from music to books; and whether the conversation will really head anywhere.

Do you think this takes away from the charm of getting to know someone the traditional way, or is this savvy style of doing a bit of online research and analysis on the person a good thing? It may, perhaps, feel a little weird to have somebody, who's barely made eye contact with you through dinner, send a friend request an hour later. But the good news is that you have a 'quick search' option to help you separate the wheat from the chaff, as it were.

Prominent psychologist and philosopher, Aaron Ben-Ze'ev, wrote a book in 2009 called Love Online that details the power inherent in Internet communication - essentially breaking down the usual barriers of shyness and cultural differences, to foster fantastically intimate relationships between people who might otherwise have not ever met.

There is, understandably, a lot more available on the Internet today, but the underlying concept remains the same. Relationships have, for centuries, been built on foundations much weaker than this. If anything, cyberspace does offer a safety net of sorts - allowing for a background check on some, and a place to start a conversation - something that you might not be able to do in real life.

And love, the lucky ones will tell you, is often found in places where we least expect. While there may still be stories of lifelong relationships and bonds being formed at random railway stations and via friends of friends, nowadays there is a greater likelihood of meeting someone over a coffee, but actually connecting with them only on the social media.

There're acquaintances you find more in common with on twitter rather than at the regular meeting grounds; the cousin of a friend who asks you out to a horror movie because, amazingly, your profile says you like watching such flicks.

Whichever way you look at it, love, no matter where it begins, remains the same through the years and no amount of technological advancement is ever going to change that. The emotion doesn't really change, ways of expression do.

BBC did an interesting feature a couple of months ago on 'Living Online' that told the story of a couple who met through a common interest - playing World of Warcraft. Were it not for their shared obsession for the online role-playing game, they would never have ended up getting married to each other.

Because, quite simply, the idea of one obsessed with avatars in alternate reality online games does bring up the image of somebody glued to a monitor in sweatpants at home, alone - not, really, the life of the neighbourhood party.

But this is the new-age. And the sooner we get used to it, the better. From teens to senior citizens, the advent of social media has been a boon in a world that seems to only get smaller. Your relationship status, that can often garner a lot of uninvited interest in a 'complicated' situation, can change with a click of a button; making new friends is that simple now.

Of all things in this ever-changing world, from global warming to the latest smartphone in the market, the one thing that remains constant is the genuine feelings that we as human beings experience towards each other and our ability to connect on an emotional level. As Bob Dylan so wonderfully sang, "the times, they are a changing&hellip;keep your eyes wide, the chance won't come again."

As days add up to years and cassettes make way for compact discs and iPods, and phones practically become the new laptops, the pace at which we live our lives seems to keep spinning faster and faster.

Today, please stop a while to take a deep breath, to smell the roses, to listen to your heart. Love never changes; it is there to be embraced and shared. Love today is, essentially, the same feeling it was yesterday and will stay the same tomorrow.

It's absolutely fine if you don't believe in the need for a Valentine's Day to express your love. You can make any day the day of love; take a moment to tell somebody in your life how much they mean to you, how you love them now and always will.

From that grand-aunt who sends you a birthday card every year, even if you're closer to 40, to the friend you forget to call, but often think of when you see something that reminds you of her. Take some time off during your day to make a call or post a quick message on their 'wall' to say you love them and are thinking of them.

A little thought and feeling goes a long way; it may come around all the way back to you, who knows! Take advantage of lessons learned yesterday to love more today.

For, what's love? It's the feeling of being wanted and cherished. Love's fate lives within us; you only have to be brave enough to see it. Love is eternal, love is patient, love is kind; in the words of the Great Book, "it always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails."

So, folks, here's wishing you all a very happy Valentine's Day!]]>Will it last for a lifetime?http://www.deccanherald.com/content/459581/will-last-lifetime.html
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/459581/will-last-lifetime.htmlFri, 13 Feb 2015 16:01:23 +0530Feb 14, 2015:Can you make someone fall in love with you? Can it survive? Sudha Subramanian mulls over some essential matters of the heart.

If falling in love is tough, then making love last is hard work. Most of us believe that once you fall in love, everything else will follow. Because that is what the popular stories say - And they lived happily ever after. What nobody tells you is how to stay loved and continue to love. This means, to continue to know the other person and to continue to discover each other.

There is a notion out there that the partner should be a perfect match. But what truly works is the ability to navigate the relationship through various disagreements and to learn to accept the quirks and squeamishness of the other.

It is not about overlooking these slips, but to be able to greet them with respect. As we grow, our ideas, our choices, our likes change. Over time, the person we initially fell in love with changes, too. So, what can work is an intimate bond of friendship, acceptance and also the ability to forgive those small mistakes.

New York Times' popular column

Modern Love recently carried an essay by Mandy Len Carton, in which she describes how she applied a study by psychologist Dr Arthur Aron to her love life. Dr Arthur, in 1997, held a study where he "made people fall in love" with the help of 36 questions he had designed.

Mandy took those questions with an acquaintance and finally, fell in love. But, in her defence, Mandy goes on to say that she did not let love "happen" to her. Instead she took the chance to fall in love. A simple Google search will give you that list of 36 questions, which can make one fall in love. But, on looking at the questions, I realised that it is not the questions that can make you fall in love, but the choice one makes to answer those questions, in all fairness.

When we are honest about our fears, values, and are able to share intimate details, it brings people together. It allows us to show the other person our weakness, our fears and our inadequacies. When we see others as vulnerable as ourselves, we love them. We accept them. We build a bond. And that's the only secret to lasting relationships.

Well, it is safe to conclude that love is an important force to reckon with in human life. It is a necessary ingredient because it cripples our ego and makes us human. As a universal emotion, it is known to strike when you least expect.

It fosters many relationships. It does not necessarily have to be a relationship between a man and a woman. Love is a good seed to sow for any relationship to flourish.

But what is love? It can mean different things to different people - a hug for some, a hand squeeze for others, a warm smile can suffice, too. The interesting thing to note is how this emotion changes its form with every relationship - man and wife, boy and girl, mother and child, parent and child. So many variations to a singular emotion! From Bollywood movies to the common man, we all ask the same question time and again - should we really fall in love? Yes is the unequivocal answer.

After all, it is a universal phenomenon and one of natures bountiful gifts to mankind. It is a positive force that nature has taught us and endowed us with. Our inability to comprehend this phenomenon of falling in love should not stop us from experiencing this magical feeling.

By loving someone, you give yourself the chance to accept the person with all his/her shortcomings. It makes you vulnerable, it liberates you.

However, these days, love as an emotion is over-dramatised. They put up a lot of red roses and expensive gifts to beautify it. There's no need for all that fancy dressing. What matters is what's within. That which stays and grows in you and lifts you up when you are at your weakest, that which gives wings to your dream, that which makes you smile through life's unkind twists and turns.

Love also changes itself over time as we grow in a relationship - dont we all experience it? Haven't you discovered this magical affection for another person? Whether it'll last a lifetime or not, well, that's for you to decide. ]]>Gotta love the lemongrass!http://www.deccanherald.com/content/459580/gotta-love-lemongrass.html
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/459580/gotta-love-lemongrass.htmlFri, 13 Feb 2015 15:57:44 +0530Richa Hegde , Feb 14, 2015, DHNS:The refreshingly, citrus-scented lemongrass is a perennial herb known for its therapeutic and edicinal benefits. It is a storehouse of many vital nutrients such as vitamins A and C, folate, calcium, magnesium, zinc, copper and iron.

In addition to this, it has several salient properties, which make it an excellent health companion:

-Magnesium, phosphorous and folate content present in lemongrass helps in the healthy functioning of the nervous system.

- Lemongrass is an essential cure for various types of anaemia, especially those resulting from iron deficiency.

- The essential oil of lemongrass is used as a main component in aromatherapy for muscle pain.

-It eliminates toxins from the body, is a good appetizer and soothes the digestive track.

- The chemical component present in lemongrass has phenomenal qualities. It is effective in destroying microorganisms and detoxifying blood as it has anti-fungal properties.

- Lemongrass oil imparts a cooling sensation to the skin and helps in dealing with skin irritations like acne, rash, heat bumps, eczema and burns.

- The anti-inflammatory properties associated with lemongrass help in curing allergic conditions and treating arthritis and gout.

- Lemongrass juice is a stimulant. It restores and maintains overall health of the body.]]>Fitness fundashttp://www.deccanherald.com/content/459579/fitness-fundas.html
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/459579/fitness-fundas.htmlFri, 13 Feb 2015 15:55:45 +0530Feb 14, 2015, DHNS:There are rules to working out right. Finding your perfect exercise is will deliver on your fitness quotient in the long run, says Jean Claude-Vacassin.

There are hundreds of ways of getting into shape, but there are certain principles that apply to all forms of training, regardless of the goal. Assuming that safety, effectiveness and progression are at the core of the programme, there is a set of rules that any sensible and well thought out programme should follow.

The classic principles include complex exercises before more simple ones, multi-joint exercises before isolation movements and strength training before cardiovascular exercises, for example. But the purpose of this article is not to delve too deeply into programme design - besides, it's impossible to give true examples without the context of the broader programme.

Instead, and assuming you're dealing with organised programmes, I want to discuss how best to work out and which exercise is best for you. This is my five point plan for cherry-picking your most suitable school of fitness:Specific goals

There are times when we choose certain exercises simply because we enjoy them, and that's good; important in fact. But if you want to reach your goal more efficiently, you'd do better to pick specific exercises, rather than repeat the same stuff over and over again.

Think about it. Unless an exercise is going to help us get what we want from our programme, why include it? If you're trying to increase single leg stability, for example, standing bow-legged on a balance board is probably not what you should be doing, no matter how much fun it might be.

Suitability

Certain people are better suited to certain exercises. This is pretty obvious when we look at sports, with certain shapes and sizes being more suited to different disciplines, but the same applies to the rest of us when we workout. Restrictions and injuries are also an important factor, as these too will impact how safely and effectively we can perform a given movement.

Squats are a great exercise, for example, but if we lack the pre-requisite mobility and stability throughout the body, they are very likely to cause injury, especially if we compound that by adding weight.

Time-smartness

The most common reason people cite for not going to the gym is lack of time. So the exercise you choose has to be as time-efficient as possible. That might be different for those of us with sports-specific goals, but for general fitness and fat loss, you can get a lot done in a relatively small amount of time.

This is the reason that most of the fitness community are staunch advocates of exercises such as squats, lunges, deadlifts, chin ups and interval-style training, amongst others, which are effective and time efficient, as compared to biceps curls and abdominal machines, which are not.

Risks versus reward

A lot of us will enjoy the challenge fitness offers us, but beware of the worrying trend of making fitness as extreme as possible. I'm all for the development of mental strength through exercise, and I think that the movement toward functional or athletic training is a positive one, but very few of us should be performing Olympic lifting movements, and fewer of us still should be pairing these with sprints, for example.

Sure, we will burn some calories, and it might be great for fat loss, but the risk of injury is not worth the potential reward. There are other ways of getting the same results.

Clever cross-training

Most of us will have goals when it comes to training, and we should follow a gym programme and select exercises accordingly - and then mix and match them sensibly. Some of us go to the gym for general fitness, while others go to compliment other activities, such as running or cycling pursuits.

But just remember when supplementing exercise plans to choose exercises that improve performance, rather than take more out of us. For the runners amongst us, we should spend our time in the gym focussing on strengthening and prehabilitation exercises, with particular attention to the muscles in the hips, core and back, rather than picking exercises that further stress the knees.

It's true that as humans we all like being part of something bigger than ourselves, and community is a massive part of fitness. But do try to pick an exercise tribe with like-minded people, and an ethos that suits you. There's a certain element of snobbery in fitness nowadays. Try to ignore brand association and the latest trend.

It's about forging a long-term relationship here, and that can only happen if you've chosen an exercise that can truly deliver on what you want.The Telegraph]]>Pregnancy checklisthttp://www.deccanherald.com/content/459577/pregnancy-checklist.html
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/459577/pregnancy-checklist.htmlFri, 13 Feb 2015 15:51:29 +0530Feb 14, 2015, DHNS:There are certain must-do's during pregnancy. Adhering to these religiously will ensure a safe pregnancy and a healthy baby, writes Dr Praveen N S.

The joy of a new life unfolding within you is a life-altering event. Therefore, following a healthy regime during different stages of a pregnancy is essential. Most of the worries and anxiety in pregnancy is caused due to misconceptions and lack of knowledge. However, with the latest advancements in technology and an array of investigations available today in fetal science, pregnancy has been made safer for both, the mother and the child.

It is prudent to understand the essentials to be followed in the different trimesters of pregnancy.

Regular doctor visits

Regular check-ups and routine visits to the obstetrician are significant in your pregnancy. Your obstetrician will evaluate all the essential details regarding your pregnancy and confirm whether it is a healthy one or inform you of any complications associated with it. Based on your case, your doctor will prescribe the required medicines and tests.

Blood tests

Here, emphasis will be laid on the presence of diabetes, hypertension and hereditary conditions. You will have to undergo few other blood tests like testing for haemoglobin, Rh typing, blood group, hepatitis B virus, human immuno-deficiency virus (HIV), along with urine tests, checks for thyroid disorders and immunisation for tetanus.

Healthy nutrition plan

The new life growing within depends on you for everything. Therefore, you require a rich supply of proteins, vitamins, calcium and minerals. It is a good idea to start taking folic acid from the beginning as this vitamin prevents you from having a baby with certain spinal defects. Besides this, a balanced and healthy diet should incorporate all essential nutrients like carbohydrates, fats, dairy products, fruit juices, proteins and green leafy vegetables rich in vitamins, iron and minerals, too.

Proper exercise

As pregnancy progresses, your sense of balance is challenged due to the changing posture. Exercise improves your balance and also boosts your energy levels. Exercise also relieves stress, muscle pain and backaches. It prepares your body for birth by strengthening and toning your muscles. In the crucial stages of pregnancy, it is important that you modify your regimen, but not give up completely.

Down Syndrome screening

Down Syndrome is a major cause of mental retardation in humans. It is caused by the presence of an extra Chromosome 21. The risk increases with the mother's age. Therefore, women older than 30 should ideally undergo screening for Down Syndrome.

If required, testing for amniocentesis is done after 15 weeks of pregnancy. It helps in assessing whether the unborn baby has any serious health condition in the form of chromosomal or genetic abnormalities. Risks are higher in case of couples who have already had a baby with certain problems, family history of genetic problems, including some rare inherited diseases and the like.

Ultrasound scans are an indispensable obstetric tool in the care of every pregnant woman. Generally, there are three scans that are compulsory - NT scan, Anomaly or Morphology scan and Growth scan. NT scan is performed during 11-14 weeks of pregnancy and is useful to clarify whether the pregnancy is a healthy one or not, to diagnose multiple pregnancies and to calculate the expected delivery date.

Anomaly scan is done around the 20th week and is a detailed study of the unborn baby to exclude any physical abnormalities in the baby. Growth scan is performed around 34-36 weeks of pregnancy to evaluate the baby's weight, fluid surrounding the baby and blood flow.

Apart from these, nowadays, 3D/4D scans are also cost-effective investigations as they offer detailed assessment of some fetal abnormalities like brain, face, spine and limb problems.

(The author is fetal medicine specialist, Navya Fetal Medicine Centre, Mysore)]]>Dealing with painhttp://www.deccanherald.com/content/459576/dealing-pain.html
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/459576/dealing-pain.htmlFri, 13 Feb 2015 15:48:51 +0530Feb 14, 2015, DHNS:Pain killers may offer relief, but that is only temporary. Dr Jones Kurian tells you how they be masking the underlying problem.

Pain is the natural reaction signalled by our brain when some part of the body is not working right. It is that unpleasant sensation, which can be experienced in various forms like shooting, piercing, radiating, pricking, tingling, pulsating, pulling and throbbing.

Undoubtedly, pain can be a nuisance. But the fact is that it is a good thing to feel pain as it allows the detection of type, location and severity of the underlying ailment.

However, it is a common habit among people to suppress pain by popping painkillers without addressing the cause. This habit can be dangerous as the temporary relief provided by painkillers can mask the real problem, which may later appear with manifold disabilities and suffering. Hence, seeking treatment for the underlying problem that is causing pain is crucial.

Getting the right diagnosis for successful treatment of any kind of pain is equally vital and here comes the role of a pain specialist.

Pain medicine, which is a relatively new medical discipline, focuses on prevention of pain and the evaluation, treatment and rehabilitation of individuals in pain. A pain expert specialises in the field of pain management and uses a broad-based approach to treat all pain disorders, ranging from pain as a symptom of disease to pain as the primary disease.

Range of care

Pain specialists are competent to provide pain management care at various levels, such as treating the patient directly, prescribing medication and rehabilitative services, performing pain relieving procedures, counselling patients and families, directing a multidisciplinary team and coordinating care with other healthcare providers.

Pain experts identify the underlying cause of pain through interpretation of one or more of the following: medical history, laboratory tests, imaging tests like X-ray and CT scan, electro-diagnostic studies, assessment of behavioural, social and occupational issues of the patient.

A proficient team of pain specialists focuses on helping men, women and children suffering from chronic as well as acute pain.

For an ideal pain management centre, the clinical protocols should be patient-specific and must follow three fundamental principles - precise diagnosis, symptom management and restoration of the body part that is suffering.

An advanced pain management clinic employs state-of-the-art technology coupled with unique treatment protocols in order to help a patient recover faster and with no side-effects. Moreover, with the cutting-edge medical technologies now available, specialised pain management services also allow other benefits such as lesser or no requirement of oral medications, minimally-invasive treatment procedures and cost-effective therapies, when compared to other customary modalities.

(The author is consultant pain specialist, London Pain Management Centre, Bengaluru)]]>All those old beauty loreshttp://www.deccanherald.com/content/459574/all-old-beauty-lores.html
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/459574/all-old-beauty-lores.htmlFri, 13 Feb 2015 15:44:09 +0530Feb 14, 2015, DHNS:Compromising on makeup for the fear of looking bad or ruining your skin is not a good idea. Aakriti Kochar frees you from cosmetic-related disbeliefs.

We all aim for a skin that radiates with health and beauty. We even spend much of our time using varied products to achieve lustrous hair and flawless skin. Such is our love for amazing looks. And in our pursuit of this, we often follow certain beliefs without checking the facts. Let us look at some of the most common beauty myths.

Concealer lighter than foundation

The shade of concealer need not be lighter than that of foundation. It is a known fact that using a lighter foundation makes the skin grey or unnatural. Also, using a lighter shade of concealer makes the flaws become more prominent rather than hiding them.

The solution to this problem is to match the shade of the concealer with that of your natural skin tone. If your foundation and concealer shade are two or three tones different, then you can first apply the concealer on affected areas and then apply a thin layer of foundation to match the colour and bring it to your natural tone.

For hyperpigmentation or dull eyes, one can use an orange or yellow concealer to kill the blue undertone first and then, apply the concealer. Using the concealer shade alone on hyperpigmentation might not hide your dark circles or flaws completely. In this case, use loose powder or a compact to seal the concealer. Or you could immediately follow it up with foundation. This sets the base and prevents creasing.

Blush only adds colour

Blush is not used just to add colour to cheeks, but also to add definition to your face. Blushers help in contouring cheek bones, thereby making our features appear sharper. However, dark brown shades can only be used to contour or give shape to your cheeks, jawline and the nose.

Using a pink or peach colour will not serve the purpose. These contour shades should be matte finish, whereas blushers used to add colour to the face can be pink, peach or corals. Those with sheen/shimmer are used to highlight your face.

No black liner for small eyes

That people with small eyes should not apply black eyeliner is an absolute myth. On the contrary, black eyeliner on the top rim of the eyes can make small eyes look bigger. These also help in transforming small eyes to big or almond-shaped eyes, depending on the shape of the eyeliner.

Coloured liners also emphasise the eye shape, though not as much as black; but they do make your eyes look popped. One can use a coloured eye liner on the inner rim, that is, the waterline to make it look bigger and brighter. White eye liner pencils are also used to make your eyes bigger and brighter.

Red lips only for the fair

Red lips are not limited to fair women. The colour comes in various shades to suit different skin tones. Women with fair tones can use coral reds, whereas for women with dark complexion, it is advisable to go for warmer shades of red (more towards the maroon tone). Always remember to outline lips with a red lip liner matching the colour of the red lipstick you are going to use.

Another useful tip while wearing a red lipstick or any other bright shade is to keep it matte. A bold lip colour on its own gives the required definition and the so-called pout, which everyone wants. Avoid gloss or shimmer. The colour on its own does the magic. Just find the right shade.

Wearing makeup causes breakouts

It is a common myth that wearing makeup causes breakouts. Skin breakouts depend on one's personal hygiene. Clean your makeup brushes regularly. Keep in mind the expiry of products to avoid any kind of skin infections. As for powder products such as compact, blush and eyeshadows, they can be cleaned with a dry tissue. Clean the top layer on the product if you are using it after some time and the fresh layer can be used for more than two to three years since its first use. Picking products to match your skin type is another factor that can help prevent infections.

If you have oily skin, avoid cream-based products, especially in summers. Also, certain ingredients present in a particular skincare product or cosmetic can be allergic to some skin types. Be aware of ingredients that do not suit your skin type. For dry skin, which is usually sensitive, one should pick products that have a soothing ingredient or are cream-based, which will provide comfort to the skin without any reaction. This is true for any other skin type as well. Accumulation of bacteria and oil causes skin problems leading to breakouts.

Foundation makes you look fairer

A foundation is designed to even out your skin tone. It does make one look fresh and bright, but that is because it evens out your skin tone and hides the marks and dark spots from your skin. This in turn makes your face look even and brighter. Using a lighter shade of foundation will make you look grey and will never blend into your skin naturally and completely as compared with the shade matching your skin tone.

For most of the Indian skin tones, pick a foundation with a yellow undertone. A pink-based undertone will not blend well into your skin. Only the correct shade will settle into your skin and look natural.

The compact, in fact, can be picked one shade lighter or the exact shade of the foundation. (The author is a beauty & makeup expert, Oriflame India) ]]>Something about aloohttp://www.deccanherald.com/content/459573/something-aloo.html
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/459573/something-aloo.htmlFri, 13 Feb 2015 15:39:09 +0530Feb 15, 2015, DHNS:Full of starchy goodness, potatoes are the ubiquitous ingredient of Indian cuisine. Advaita Shyam Sunder analyses our infinite love for this ever-comforting vegetable.

It's one of those vegetables we are besotted with right from our childhood. Babies are fed soft rice with a smashed version of this, and as they grow up, they find the veggie in every other delicacy at home and outside, too.

Yes, we are talking about the starchy potatoes. If you have an innate fondness for them, we can't blame you! One of the major reasons for its popularity is the fact that it's multi-utilitarian - add it to the curry, mix it with rice, deep fry them, use them as sumptuous fillings...the possibilities are endless!

Have you ever wondered why people are sometimes referred to as 'couch potatoes' and not 'couch brinjals'? There's something about potatoes that's innately comforting. When you feel down and out, don't you crave for some potato chips? Perhaps, a spicy chaat packed with some aloo? They are, simply put, the best way to stimulate your palate - and spirits.

The common misconception is that potatoes aren't healthy. But the fact remains that they are healthy by themselves; what makes them unhealthy is the butter, the oil and all that frying. In fact, baked potatoes are known to be low-calorie, high-fibre food, rich in vitamin B6 and a good source of potassium, copper, Vitamin C, manganese and phosphorous.

The 2014 FAOSTAT DATA says India is the second largest producer of potatoes in the world after China. Potatoes are one of the most affordable vegetables. Despite the rising prices, they manage to find a place in every Indian kitchen, with love and respect! Potatoes are with us through thick and thin, in every form imaginable - boiled, fried or blanched. Also, it has an all-mood-compatible feature, that is, no matter what one's mood is - sad, happy, bored - they make for perfect companions.

"Potatoes are comfort food. They merge with almost all kind of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Most of us improvise with aloos when we are too tired to cook or hard-pressed for time," says Raggi Chakraborty, an event manager. In fact, for many desis, no meal is complete or satiating without potatoes. If you want a tingle of excitement for your taste buds, then potatoes are a must.The chaat theory

When you look at streetside snacks, potato ascends the throne. Be it vada pav or aloo chaat, it's an integral part of every lip-smacking dish. Crouching over massive iron skillets, lining narrow Indian streets of North India, aloo tikki wallahs have mastered the art of creating hundreds of tikkis by the hour and delicately balancing them in high piles, ready to be scooped up and served with dollops of tangy, sweet and spicy chutneys. In our country, potato is, undoubtedly, the crowd pleaser and appetiser.

In Bengali cuisine, potatoes are ubiquitous as they not only act as fillers in meals like fish rice, but also find a pride of place in classic dishes like aloo sheddo bhaat (boiled potato with rice) and aloo kabuli chaat (spicy potato and chickpea mixture). Ask any busy professional in West Bengal, and s/he will tell you that potato is an everyday staple. Just like the connoisseurs of masala dosa (with its spicy potato filling) in South India.

Popular potatoes

-Batata vada hails from the streets of Maharashtra and is a favourite snack of many. Mashed masaledar potatoes coated with thick besan batter and deep fried till golden, and served with tangy chutney, these vadas are both, filling and tasty.

-Aloo paratha is one of the most popular breakfast dishes in North India. Originally from Punjab, parathas are Indian breads stuffed with spicy potato mixture, usually served with raita, mint chutney or curd.]]>Grandparenting from afarhttp://www.deccanherald.com/content/458190/grandparenting-afar.html
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/458190/grandparenting-afar.htmlFri, 6 Feb 2015 18:12:07 +0530Feb 7, 2015, DHNS:Distance needn't be a deterrent. So what if you don't live in the same city, country or continent as the little love of your life? Suja Natarajan tells you how to form an everlasting bond with your grandchildren.

Nana, can we Skype tomorrow?" asks Aditi, before she hangs up. It's a routine her nana-nani (maternal grandparents) in India wouldn't miss for the world. Every evening before dinner, the Raos log on to their computer to get a glimpse into their granddaughter's day. Some days the conversation keeps flowing, other days it's short. But the channels of communication are always open. Aditi and her grandparents are very much in sync with each other.

There was a time when such familial connections were taken for granted. Indian children grew up in the pampering company of grandparents - often, individuals who were either too strict or busy as parents. However, as families got nuclear and separated by distance for myriad reasons, keeping everyone in sync has turned out to be a huge challenge.

Does 'out of sight' have to mean 'out of mind'? Long-distance grandparents often feel left out, anxious and powerless. "I feel terrible that I can't bond with my grandchildren. When I do visit them, we are strangers for the first few days. And it's already time for me to leave by the time I start bonding with them," rues Anupama Singh.

It is natural for long-distance grandparents to fret about losing their connection with grandchildren. They are concerned that the children would become strangers as time flies by.

Though nothing beats the fun and love of being around grandkids, the good news is that you can still establish a lifelong attachment with them, despite the physical distance.

"We have a tradition of calling my parents every Sunday morning. My kids have long animated conversations with my parents," shares Manu P. Relationships are like plants that need constant nourishing and nurturing. You need to make that effort to make it work. As family historians, grandparents are primary links, which keep the family together.

The grandchildren need their warmth and wisdom as much as they need their time and attention. While you may not have control over external circumstances, you can always steer your relationship with your grandchildren in such a way that it keeps you involved. Don't resent the fact that you have to take so much trouble for keeping in touch. What seems like a big deal in the beginning quickly becomes routine. And it's well worth the effort.

Here are some ways to bond with your grand bundle of joy even when you're miles away:

Stay involved: Relationships may change over the years, but you can certainly keep it from growing cold and distant. As a grandparent, take an interest and be involved in your grandchildren's lives. Bonding begins when they discover things about you. Building trust is one of the important aspects of a relationship. Be predictable. Initiate a regular communication schedule and stick to it.

With a number of astounding options on the Internet, it's easy to keep in touch with your loved ones. While the technology may seem daunting, the ability to communicate with your grandchildren will keep you emotionally close.

Remember, you have more time to talk and listen to your grandchildren than their parents.

"I often use Skype to chat with my grandchildren who are in Oz. Besides catching up, I set up a theme for each week and read a storybook every Friday. We also exchange emails and share photographs," says Lakshmi R, grandmother of two.

Hail the snail mail In this age of instant communication, don't underestimate the goodness of snail mail. Maximise the impact of your sentiments with handwritten letters, notes and little bright-coloured packages. Children love to receive mail in their name. It makes them feel grown-up. Small surprises make them feel elated, special and loved.

"I remember eagerly waiting for my ajja's (Grandpa) riddles and greeting cards. I still treasure them!" says Nishith S. Keep the notes short, as children can be overwhelmed with a long letter.

Encourage them to respond to your snail mails and gifts. Don't feel hurt or dismayed, though, if your grandchildren don't respond as frequently as you'd like them to. Make a video diary.

If a picture is worth a thousand words, a motion picture is even better! You can create stories with a video dairy. Keep a video journal of special days and events, and share them with your grandchildren. It's an excellent way to share nostalgic details like your favourite music, books you read, places you have travelled and the like. The keepsake will be a treasure trove of information for your grand-children and generations to come.

Similarly, ask for a video diary of your grandchildren at special events like annual day at school and festive celebrations at home.

In case, recording a video seems overwhelming, you can record the details in a journal and send it across to your grandchildren. You can also make a photo album, with notes for each photo, to make it extra special.

Share a hobby: You and your grandchildren may not have a lot in common, but you can initiate activities where you can do things together, even when you are thousands of miles apart.

"My three-year-old granddaughter loves collecting shells. So, I collect them whenever I travel and give it to her when we visit her. We spend a lot of time making conch jewellery together," says Vimala R.How about starting a gardening project with the little one? Or coin collection or rock collection? Whatever it is that you choose, you need to devise ways in which you both can send each other regular updates and photos. You can also support their interests by sending across books, magazines and small gifts. Plan visits

Nothing is better than creating memories in person. Make plans in advance to visit your grandchildren - for special events and occasions, if not often. Make the most of your visits. Create excitement and plan the various activities during your trip with your grandchildren.

This way, they'll look forward to meeting you. Make the visit memorable by doing a project together - something the kids can continue with, even after you leave.

Talk to the parents

Communication with your children is a critical factor necessary to bridge the distance between you and your grandkids. Without the involvement of parents, forming a relationship with the grandchildren can be a challenge. Parents can help you stay updated.

Don't let unrealistic expectations and generation gap come in the way of your relationship with your children and their spouses. Trust their judgment and give them space. Nothing can replace the unconditional love of a grandparent. So, don't let distance pay spoilsport.

Truth is I'll never know all there is to know about you just as you will never know all there is to know about me. Humans are by nature too complicated to be understood fully. So, we can choose either to approach our fellow human beings with suspicion or to approach them with an open mind, a dash of optimism and a great deal of candour.- Tom Hanks

Being social creatures, all of us are entangled in the web of relationships. As Dale Carnegie says in his book How to win friends and influence people, in every individual "there is a deep driving desire to master the principle of human relations". Our happiness as well as our sense of self-worth and self-esteem rest upon our skill to nurture relationships and deal with people and emotions.

All relationships depend on the principle of mutual accommodation. Who we truly are is linked to the people we associate with and those we love. Deep within, there is an ardent thirst to master the art of relationships.

Let us look at the essential elements of an enduring relationship:

-Steadfast communication: Communication needs to be built on right understanding, with no urge to judge, but with an intent to understand first and then, to be understood. This will help in sealing and cementing relationships.

- Sensitivity and responsiveness: Each of us has our own way of responding to situations. Some are shy by nature, others more forthcoming. Let us not impose our ways on others. Be sensitive; hear, in essence, what may not be said. This will help keep the doors of comfort and friendship open.

- Expectations: Among the big issues in any relationship, there's expectations; disappointments and frustrations erupt as a consequence of not living up to these expectations. Minimal expectation is the key to happiness and better relationships.

-Responsibilities: Let us not always expect others to take responsibility; it is good to set an example by taking ours seriously. And when things go wrong, make an effort to forgive and let go.

- Adaptability: The environment may not always match our moods. Be alert; know when to have fun and when to be serious, when to be over the top and when to be invisible, when to take charge and when to follow.

-Openness: As we grow older, most of us get set in our convictions, and often argue. We may or may not win an argument, but we ultimately lose good will - and often, the relationship, too. So, let us keep an open mind, view things from others' perspective and not be aggressive or obstinate with our own set thoughts.

- Praise-worthiness: Instead of fanning blame, take the road of praise and appreciation. As Abraham Lincoln succinctly put it, "Everybody likes a compliment". So, why not be generous with them? But don't just say the words, mean them, too.]]>Flaws and fillershttp://www.deccanherald.com/content/458186/flaws-fillers.html
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/458186/flaws-fillers.htmlFri, 6 Feb 2015 17:54:55 +0530Feb 7, 2015:There are numerous ways in which your skin can get adversely affected by both, internal and external factors. It is best to prevent these harmful effects. But in unfortunate cases where the skin does take a hit, there are certain things you can do to mitigate the effects. Acne agony

Acne, commonly known as pimples, is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the sebaceous unit present in the skin. In mild to moderate cases, there may be blackheads, whiteheads or pustules. In severe cases, there are nodules, cysts and abscess, which lead to scarring, if not treated in time. Acne is common in the age group of 13-30 years, but it may occur or persist beyond this age.

-Wash your face with an anti-bacterial facewash, at least two to three times a day.-Increase the intake of citrus fruits such as oranges, grapes, lime and lemon.-Drink plenty of water.-Do not pick or squeeze the pimples as this causes infection, pigmentation and scarring. - Avoid the use of oily cosmetics, cleansing milk and gels.-Do not apply excessive hair oil.- Avoid stress.- Be patient and give medicines some time to act. You may have to take antibiotics for eight to ten weeks.- You may require surgical intervention in the form of comedone extraction, cryoslush, cryo-peel with liquid nitrogen or superficial chemical peel. These are best performed by a dermatosurgeon.

The colour of anyone's skin depends mainly on the amount of melanin present in layers of their epidermis. The thickness of epidermis and vascularity of the epidermis are other factors affecting the colour of skin. Hyper pigmentation (increase in skin pigmentation) may either be due to increased melanin deposition in the epidermis or dermis. Epidermal pigmentary disorders respond well to treatment, while dermal pigmentation may take a long time to lighten.

There are different kinds of pigmentation.

-Melasma: Seen as brown patches on the face, it is more common in females. It occurs due to hormonal changes in the body. The pigmentation increases on exposure to sun.

- Peri-orbital melanosis: Also known as 'dark circles,' this may be hereditary, due to stress or eye strain.

-Freckles and Lentigenes: These are tiny black spots on the face and are genetic in origin.

- Photomelanosis: This is increased pigmentation due to sun exposure. It occurs on exposed skin, commonly on the face, neck and back. The pigmentation may be patchy or as diffused darkening of the exposed skin.- Sun burn (tan): Commonly among fair-skinned people, the condition occurs due to excessive sun exposure.

- Post inflammatory hyper pigmentation: It may be seen after healing has occurred, like in acne, eczemas, contact dermatitis.

- Drug-induced pigmentation: Pigmentation due to cosmetics, specially those containing fragrance.Melasma, photomelanosis and post- inflammatory hyper pigmentation can be treated with topical creams such as hydroxy quinine, tretinoin, topical steroids, alpha hydroxy acid creams, azelic acid, arbutin, liquorice, kojic acid. If the condition does not improve with these medicines, other modalities like chemical peeling, intense pulse light treatment and laser treatment may be employed.

Darn dark circles

Dark circles under the eyes are usually a sign of stress. They give the impression of tiredness all the time. They can be caused by a combination of factors such as:

-Thinner skin on the lower eyelids, allowing pigment and vessels to be more visible.- Cumulative sun damage plays a significant role by increasing skin thinning and melanin content.- Inflammation, atopic dermatitis.- Hereditary origins.

Using the combination of arginine and lactic acid peels, along with Vitamin C serum, helps reduce dark circles in eight to ten sessions, if done at two weekly intervals. The peel is very safe and the person can go back to work immediately after the session.

Alternatively, pixel laser can also be used to treat dark circles and fine lines under the eyes. About four treatments are needed once a month. Sunken eyes can also create an effect of dark circles due to a shadowing effect. In such cases, a hyaluronic acid filler can be used to fill the hollow under eyes, thus getting rid of the shadow and the apparent dark circles.

Unwanted lines & wrinkles

Fine lines and wrinkles become unavoidable when we start ageing, as our skin becomes dryer and less elastic. Most of us begin to develop fine lines and wrinkles by the age of 30 or 35 because of the following factors:

Fine lines arise because of irregular thickening of the dermis and because of a decrease in the amount of water held by the epidermis. This is mainly caused by sun damage and exposure to environmental toxins.

One way to prevent wrinkles and lines is to moisturise your skin as much as possible.

Dryness and dehydration will cause more lines to appear on the skin. Always use a sunscreen before stepping out, to prevent sun damage. Use creams containing peptides, coenzyme Q10,

curcumin, Vitamins C & E. Alpha hydroxy peels will reduce fine lines by about 30 to 40 percent. Laser treatments are also done to get rid of fine lines.

For wrinkles on the upper face such as forehead, frown lines or crow's feet, botox injections will help erase them for four to six months. One has to repeat the session when the effect wears off.

Hyaluronic acid filler injections are given for deeper wrinkles such as laugh lines and lines around the mouth. The effect lasts for about a year and the process needs to be repeated for long-term effects.

(The author is cosmetic dermatologist & author of Skin Talks)]]>Practising the right gaithttp://www.deccanherald.com/content/458184/practising-right-gait.html
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/458184/practising-right-gait.htmlFri, 6 Feb 2015 17:50:06 +0530Pooja Bajaj & Prabhakar PandeyWalking the correct way helps avoid fall-related injuries and improve one's health and fitness levels. Walking is a great stress-buster and can be very therapeutic. But have you ever asked yourself. "Do I walk the right way?" To walk the right way and to avoid injury, you need to follow some

basic principles:

-Avoid overstriding: We tend to over-stride to reach our destination quicker and ignore the ground conditions. Overstriding leads to an artificial gait, which can hurt your shins. If you want to walk faster, choose a path which is clear and smooth. Before you start walking quickly, warm up or increase your speed slowly.

-The right footwear: Ill-fitting footwear is the main cause of walk-related injuries. Avoid high heels, shoes that do not support your feet or are uncomfortable, as well as shoes with uneven soles.

- The right clothing: Badly-fitting or loose/long clothes can also make you stumble when you walk. So wear well-fit clothes that do not hinder your walking pattern.

- Stay alert: Do not develop an artificial gait or copy someone's walking style. Use your own natural pattern and walk slowly, steadily, smoothly and with full awareness of your surroundings. Keep your eyes ahead as well as on the path. Do not use your phone or other distractions while walking.

-Head high, spine straight: When walking, keep your posture straight so that your weight is equally distributed between your feet. Your arms should be bent at 90 degrees and must swing back and forth naturally. Always land your heel first and push off with your toes. Avoid any abrupt change of direction.

- Lose excess weight: Excess weight can impede your walking and make it tiring or uncomfortable. Losing weight can make a difference and will help you walk more easily. (Pooja is senior neuro physiotherapist & Prabhakar is consultant, AktivOrtho)]]>Litchi nightmareshttp://www.deccanherald.com/content/458182/litchi-nightmares.html
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/458182/litchi-nightmares.htmlFri, 6 Feb 2015 17:47:55 +0530Gardiner Harris, Feb 7, 2015, NYTNS:An intensive investigation of a mysterious annual epidemic in northern India in which thousands of young children suffer convulsions, lapse into comas and die has concluded that a toxin found in litchi fruit may be the cause.

"We believe it's likely to be some sort of toxin that causes a sharp drop in blood sugar levels that then leads to seizures," said Dr Padmini Srikantiah, one of the authors of a description of the investigation in a recent issue of Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, a publication of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in the United States.

The affected children begin arriving every year in mid-May, brought by panic-stricken mothers who generally report that their young children, healthy just hours before, awoke with a scream in the middle of the night, suffered convulsions and then became unconscious.

The first reports of the disease date to 1995, when nearly 1,000 children were sickened and 300 died in Muzaffarpur, Bihar. Smaller epidemics have followed almost every year since, and similar outbreaks have been reported in litchi-growing regions of Bangladesh and Vietnam.

Doctors work to calm the convulsions and keep the stricken children hydrated, but they then have to watch helplessly along with the anguished parents as a third of their young patients die, often within hours. Then, as suddenly as it started, the outbreak stops with the onset of the monsoon rains in July.

The hope is that further testing will definitively reveal whether the litchi toxin is the cause and, perhaps, help find an antidote.]]>Learning yogahttp://www.deccanherald.com/content/458180/learning-yoga.html
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/458180/learning-yoga.htmlFri, 6 Feb 2015 17:46:13 +0530While health magazines and You Tube videos might tell you about postures, they will never be good enough to replace the experience of a yoga class, says Pragya Bhatt.

Yoga, contrary to popular perception, cannot be self-taught. More importantly, yoga must always be performed under supervision.

Here go five good reasons why you need to attend that yoga class:

-Yoga postures are not about how they look. It's easy to get carried away by a beautiful picture and try to replicate the pose. However, all poses go beyond the physical look, into the internal stretching and aligning of bones and muscles, which cannot be explained in a photograph.

An experienced yoga teacher will look at your pose from all angles to ensure that you are doing it correctly. No article or book can do this for you.

- Only a trained instructor can tell you the safest way to get your foot behind your ear. Every yoga pose is a sequence. The sequence is designed to be safe and natural for the body. If you try to take shortcuts to a pose, you may end up causing long-term damage to your bones and tissues.

- An instructor brings years of experience and wisdom to the classroom. That's much more than what you'll get out of a book, an article or a 10-minute video on You Tube. Yoga teachers gain a lot of insight into your mind by watching how you practise. Because of this, they are able to guide you in many ways.

- Practising in your home, in a closed room with little or no interaction with others, leaves you with little or no other perspective. A yoga class is effectively a community of health-conscious people. So, whether it's the young cyclist who can tell you where to pick up a great bike suited for your needs or a software engineer who can tell you about the best yoga apps to download, you will build a warm and caring community of like-minded people.

-An instructor will keep you motivated. Unless you're one of those people who are great at putting in an hour's workout without fail every day, it's a good idea to ask for an instructor's help. At least, you'll know that you are accountable to someone other than yourself - someone who is interested in your yoga practice.(The author is a Bengaluru-based yoga instructor)]]>Keep your heart warmhttp://www.deccanherald.com/content/458178/keep-your-heart-warm.html
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/458178/keep-your-heart-warm.htmlFri, 6 Feb 2015 17:41:56 +0530Feb 7, 2015:A dip in the mercury levels calls for lifestyle changes. And if you are suffering from an illness, be extra cautious, advises Dr Deepak Khurana.

With the onset of winters, there is an increased demand on the body to generate heat to keep itself warm. That is why the basal metabolic rate (BMR) of an individual goes up. We tend to eat more, especially more of fried and junk food. Winter is a convenient time for lazily snuggling in bed. We have a state of high-calorie intake to maintain our fuel supply to generate heat. When the imbalance in input versus output is tilted towards input, we gain weight, and our lipid profile and bad cholesterol starts going up.

All this bears an extra load on the working of our heart, which has to pump harder and faster to keep the body functioning. Healthy individuals can withstand the harsh effects of this climate, but for those suffering from cardiac problems, these symptoms call for immediate medical attention:

Chest heaviness, pain on the left side of chest, behind the chest or along the jawline.

Breathlessness and tiredness.

Undue lethargy.

Frequent throat infections, which may lead to infection of the heart valves. All the fatty and junk food consumed will soon start showing its effect on the body mass in the form of fat deposition. There is also some thickening of blood, which results in clogging of blood vessels in the heart, brain and lower limbs. Due to cold climate, people tend to feel less thirsty and thus drink less water and also sweat lesser. Therefore, our heart needs special care in winter. Follow some rules of thumb for a better heart:

-Eat intelligently: Try substituting fried food with roasted or grilled stuff. The ill-effects of oily food will be done away with and nutritional value of the food chosen will be delivered. Increasing roughage, high-fibre diet, good protein and limiting carbohydrates are essential to maintain your weight during winter.

-Work out: Going for a morning walk well covered in warm clothes is a must. You can also opt for indoor activities like yoga, aerobics, tennis, zumba or else, set up a gym at home.n A day out: Motivate yourself to get out for some fun sport activities during the day with family and friends.

- Control your drinking: Though the consumption of hard liquor shoots up exponentially in winters, one must exercise control and drink in moderation. Consuming alcohol makes you feel warm initially, but drinking too much causes harm in the long run, besides being addictive.

-Adequate protection: Wear warm clothes and take in warm fluids and good nutrition to protect yourself against throat and chest ailments, which precipitate cardiac problems. n Climb stairs: A simple activity like climbing stairs rather than taking the lift does so much for your heart. The heart pumps and beats faster, leading to exercising of heart muscles.

-Regular health checkup: People who have a history of cardiac ailments or those over 40 with high risks should have regular preventive checkups to help prevent any problems.

Drastic climatic changes take a toll on the functioning of the body. Kidney patients also need to be careful with respect to their water intake and urine output, and should keep their doctors' appointments without fail.

All they flaunt is one statement jewellery &mdash; a cuff on the wrist, huge danglers for the ears or a cocktail ring on the finger.

Speaking of rings, have those chunky beauties bagged your attention yet? They are the ones with a large centrepiece that seem to have caught the fancy of celebrities, office-goers, kitty-party hoppers, mall-shopping addicts and homemakers alike. In fact, the piece has now become synonymous with those who want to make a bold statement without shouting hoarse about it.

This oversized lady's ring with a large centrestone represents a symbol of status, high fashion and a permanent fixture on the red carpet. Even the harried and often pressed for time office-goers love this bauble. Cocktail rings are bold and the large coloured stone at the centre is often surrounded by diamonds or other coloured stones that tend to attract attention. It's also referred to as a dinner or cluster ring. And a single cocktail ring completes the look, whether one is attending a board meeting, a lunch with friends or a romantic dinner.

Historical beginning

This piece of jewellery isn't a recent phenomenon. Though it became a popular accessory in the 1950s, it first appeared somewhere in the 30s and 40s. During Prohibition in the US (constitutional ban on the sale and transportation of liquor from 1920-33), women often wore these rings at illegal cocktail parties, where the intention was to indicate the fact that the wearer was drinking illegally, and doing it in style. Subsequently, they were tailor-made for parties, holidays and the like to add a fun element.

Yesteryear Bollywood actress Helen

always wore one such ring whenever she performed her famous cabaret dances in films. In those days, the ring was to help women show off their collection of jewellery, along with well-manicured fingers at parties, while holding a cocktail or champagne glass. And the larger the centre rock, the better it was to boost the woman's ego. That is how the ring came to occupy the third finger on the right hand of a woman holding a glass of cocktail - hence the name.

Since then, they have become a status symbol for women who want to make a style statement. Anybody from the fashion maverick to the intellectual woman, or the serenely graceful lady, including royalty like the Queen of England, flaunt a statement cocktail ring. Lady Diana and her famous author aunt Dame Barbara Cartland, too, famously sported these rings. The jewellery adds character to one's personality and sets the mood for the day or the occasion.

For the young, too

This certainly doesn't mean that these rings can't be worn by teenagers or the young. They can go for fun and flirtatious rings without opting for pricey ones, to suit their age and attire. The young can sport these rings even with distressed jeans and tees. They can also match them with beaded bracelets, toe-rings or funky hair accessories.

For the young, the designs differ. The centrepiece can be funky &mdash; have patterns of animal heads, skulls, large flower or whatever design one wants to adorn. And these rings can be made of silver, bell metal, silk thread, oxidised metal with centrepieces designed in wood, plastic, ceramic, beads, or even a painted large piece. Best places to find these items are not in designer stores, but with street-side vendors.

Another plus point of this special

accessory is that one can wear it as single piece or mix it with others. A cocktail ring creates a statement in itself for the wearer. Adding other jewellery will cut down its value. In this case, less is more.

Delhi-based jewellery designer Alpana Gujral, famous for her limited edition of high-end jewellery, says, "There is no set rule for wearing these rings. Anybody can flaunt it with ease. It's just that one should know how to carry it."

Sumit of Apala Sumit, specialising in silver jewellery, agrees, "Some outfits don't require any neck pieces or earrings. This is the time when you turn to a funky cocktail ring to make a fashion statement. Big stone polki rings and antique silver rings are also preferred as they add a fusion character to a woman's look!"

Flaunting a matching jewellery set of necklace-earrings-bangles is so outmoded. A gorgeous cocktail ring is all that is needed. In fact, it has become the most important item of the 'seven must-haves' in the jewellery box of a woman. So ladies, it's time now to let your hands do the talking!]]>Got promises to keephttp://www.deccanherald.com/content/456731/got-promises-keep.html
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/456731/got-promises-keep.htmlFri, 30 Jan 2015 16:54:17 +0530Jan 30, 2015:You were determined to make it work this year. But there wasn't enough time, energy or motivation, perhaps, to help you see it through.

So, you have given up on your New Year's resolution yet again. Deepa Ballal urges you to make another sincere attempt.

Last month at this time, gym memberships soared, sale of organic foods went up, excel sheets meticulously marking home expenses came into being. The air was filled with a sudden zeal and vigour. A new chapter had begun.

But New Years come and go. And so do resolutions. The joy of making them and then, the regret of breaking them, eventually completes one full cycle. The fascination for taking this ceremonial oath has, sadly, been dying a slow and silent death. But like any cult, it has its own set of believers and non-believers.

Some still make resolutions; others make and break them in no time, while the rest just don't bother. One month down the line, let's take stock of our resolutions. Have you given up already? Or, is the going slow and steady?

Those who mean to, but&hellip;

Sheela Martin's resolutions have never lasted for more than a week. "I have tried hogging that last piece of my favourite chocolate walnut cake at 11:59 pm on December 31. It has been my great resolve to keep the calories, sugars and fats at bay, soon after the midnight stroke," she says.

It was easier said than done! Saurabha Bhat understands the feeling all too well, as her resolutions have never really borne fruit. The vigour always slows down after the initial euphoria, she says.

But the strange part, she confesses, is that "the next year, one is ready with another set of resolutions, irrespective of the results of the previous year".

The end of January is a good time to revisit those resolutions. Get on that weighing scale, check your bank balance, count the junk in your refrigerator&hellip;How far have you succeeded? Chances are, not much, according to Dr Savita Upadhya.

"I see everyone talk about this in January. As of March/April, they forget all about it. It's hard to follow it through to the end of the year. That's the reason I do not have any New Year resolutions," she maintains.

There are quite a few who would agree with that point of view. Take Reena Martis, for instance. Once a staunch believer in the power of New Year resolutions, today she is rather skeptical about it. "I guess, it was kind of a trend to make resolutions.

Honestly speaking, my resolutions never lasted for more than a month," she confesses. Today it is But the question remains: why can't we stick to resolutions for long? Why does the initial hoopla fade out and pave the way for inertia? Is that how it is meant to be?

A chain is as strong as its weakest link, so is a resolution. Smitten by the "postponement bug", the resolve like an inflated balloon goes swoosh when released, in no time.

How strong our resolve is often depends, not on the first day of the year, but how prepared we were for it the previous day. Noodles may be made in an instant, not life's changes. Each day has to be an affirmation of that resolve.

"Kal kareso aaj kar, aaj kareso ab!," says Ashwini Mallapur, quoting Kabir's couplet. Why seek shelter under the calendar's canopy? Karthika Rajesh agrees. "If we want to bring about any changes in our lives, why wait till the New Year? We can make them any time of the year and ensure that they are being well implemented," she says.

After all, the journey of a thousand miles begins with a tiny step. And the day one takes that first step, Suman Venugopalan believes, will be a defining and fulfilling moment, irrespective of where it is placed on the calendar.

"The date is not significant; what matters is how serious you are about pursuing something and how badly you want to achieve it," she says. The overall health and fitness of her family is something she is worried about. So, she makes it a priority to follow and encourage a good exercise regime at home. It's an everyday effort.

So, if you faltered in your resolve this year, don't worry. And don't be in a hurry to give up. Today is a new day. You can start again. Now.

Good to resolve

"I love making resolutions. They act like a pushing force, an impetus to achieve my goals," says Rupa Arun, with a smile. "After all, anything new is interesting and exciting," she adds. Keeping fit through a daily regime of yoga and badminton tops her list this year.

For Agneta Ladek, the whole process of making resolutions since the last three decades has not only given her a direction, but also enough room for introspection.

"They helped me have some guidelines for the coming year and by the end of the year, I could see what I was able to achieve. I was also able to identify things that weren't, perhaps, as important as I thought they were in the beginning," she explains.

Whether it's losing weight, saving money, quitting smoking or just about anything, if you make a promise to yourself and put your mind to it, there's nothing that can stop you from achieving it. Don't do it because everybody is doing it or because it's the beginning of yet another year; do it because you want to.

And do it with all your heart. There's no point in cribbing and crying over it. If you are not eating that pastry, it's because you have made a pact with yourself. Do it happily.

"If you are not happy now, chances are you won't really get happy when you achieve your goal. Its like chasing life, while forgetting to enjoy the process itself. This year, my resolution was to be happy now and here, not when I achieve some milestone," shares Agneta. And, so far, it's working well for her.

For those caught in the rigmarole of making, faking and, eventually, breaking resolutions, there's an important lesson to be learnt here. Don't do it for anybody else. Do it for yourself. Do it now.]]>There's no running from the tick tockhttp://www.deccanherald.com/content/456729/theres-no-running-tick-tock.html
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/456729/theres-no-running-tick-tock.htmlFri, 30 Jan 2015 16:48:27 +0530S R Krishna Murthy, Jan 30, 2015:When the 'to-do' list keeps growing and 24 hours seem too little for the day, it's time to introspect and invest in some time management lessons. Not just for professional success, but personal harmony too, writes S R Krishna Murthy

Ever since the dawn of civilisation, human beings have faced this great mystery of time, the valuable commodity that cannot be stored, invested or lent. The driving force that reminds man of his mortality is the same commodity that hangs heavy at times of despair and loneliness.

The harsh reality is that the clock ticks away at almost the same speed as the heart beat that keeps man alive. And it moves only in one direction. One who can master time can master life. As Dr Ali Khwaja beautifully put it, "Although time can be mercilessly cruel, it can be tamed into a loving pet who actually serves our needs".

Lessons for life

Initially, time management used to be referred to only for business or work-related activities, but the term is now broadened to include personal and household affairs, too. Time management is the art or process of planning and exercising control over the amount of time spent on specific activities, especially to increase effectiveness, efficiency or productivity.

It is a meta-activity, with the goal to maximise the overall benefits of a set of activities within limited amount of time. The system is a designed combination of processes, tools and methods.

The time factor is the guiding star for scientific researches. Galileo observed that the time taken by three-and-half feet wide hanging lamps, while shaking horizontally, was equivalent to the time taken by his 72 pulse beats. This led to the discovery of the pendulum watch.

Time management is the driving force for technological revolution and project-oriented activities of the present century. It is aided by a range of skills, tools and techniques. Planning of the project is the first step. Thought is the forerunner of planning; a silent mind is the fertile ground for evaluating the viability of the plan. Time utilised on thinking through the plan is an essential part of time management.

Then comes setting priorities and goals. Set 'gravitational goals' that attract action automatically - both, ideal long-term goals and time-bound, realistic, short-term goals. The latter should take one towards the fulfillment of the former.Jobs may be prioritised into four categories:

* Important and urgent: Need to be done immediately and personally (crises and deadlines)* Important but not urgent - Have an end date, but need not be done urgently (future planning and recreation)*Unimportant but urgent (interruptions and meetings)* Unimportant and not urgent (time wasters )

Play some, too

When you are under stress, make it a point to take a break. The best example is that of former U.S President, Dwight Eisenhower. In his chamber, he had a painter's set-up with drawing board, white canvas, bunch of paint brushes and coloured paint bottles.

He painted pictures of hills, flowing rivers, moving clouds, flying birds, cattle grazing on the meadows. And thus absorbed in the paintings, the man is said to have gathered momentum, inspiration and enthusiasm.

According to Dr Ali, stress is inversely proportional to time management. If you reduce your stress levels, it will automatically give you a better sense of time, prioritisation, efficiency and clarity.

Time management can be applied to any aspect of life. For homemakers, who are always rushing against time to finish their day-to-day work, time management can be an effective tool. It can not only help them become more efficient, but also reduce tension and allow them the freedom to pursue some recreational activities.

Efficient time management can lead to better relationships and improved health.By rough estimates, many offices work for less than 250 days in a year. Addiction to long telephone calls, unnecessary gossip, procrastination and day-time sleep are some of the common time wasters. One needs to learn how to say 'no' and balance one's needs with those of others. That way, it's easier to allot tasks and prioritise them.

A maxim in Sanskrit (vairagya shatakam: 49) says that out of one hundred years of a man's life, sleep accounts for fifty years. Out of the remaining fifty years, childhood and old age take up twenty five years.

The remaining twenty five years are covered by sickness, calamities and the like. The moral of this maxim is that time management techniques should be applied to get the best out of life.Don't be a victim in the hands of time, learn to tame the beast.]]>3D? I don't see it...http://www.deccanherald.com/content/456728/3d-dont-see-it.html
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/456728/3d-dont-see-it.htmlFri, 30 Jan 2015 16:44:27 +0530Geetha Srinivasan, Jan 30, 2015:There may be some inherent defects in the eye that could hamper more than just vision. Geetha Srinivasan offers some insight into what could possibly be wrong with the all-important organ.

Ganesh returned home with nausea and headache after watching a 3D movie, while his friends enjoyed every bit of the technologically brilliant masterpiece.

Mariamma had to remove those 3D glasses and shut her eyes for 10 minutes before she could resume watching the movie. While Supreetha's cousins were busy cheering and trying to catch the flowers and goodies moving close to them in the theatre, all she could see was a blur.

Why is it that some people don't enjoy 3D movies as much as others? To answer that, we first need to understand how these movies work.

The basics

What is 3D vision? "Our right and left eyes see objects from different angles. The right eye sees more objects towards the left, while the left eye sees more towards its right.

These two slightly different images are sent to the brain separately by the right and left eyes. The nearer objects will have more of this difference than farther objects and our brain assesses this minute disparity and tells us how far an object is away from you," explains Dr M S Ravindra, medical director at Karthik Netralaya, Bengaluru.

This is stereo vision, where an object that is far away appears far, and the one that is near appears near. If you close one eye, you are left with only false cues of three dimensions; it is not accurate. Close one eye and try to bring the index fingers of both your hands closer to each other at arm length's distance; it is difficult for their tips to meet each other accurately.

Remember, one of our eyes is not a spare or stepny; we need both eyes working well and together to face this challenging world.

3D movies use this capability of our brain to create fantastic effects. There are two movies projected on the screen, with a disparity. The rays are polarised, so that when you wear the 3D glasses, the right eye sees one image, and the left eye sees the other image.

The images are dimmer due to polarisation. If the disparity is more, the brain thinks that the object is closer, if the disparity is less, it mentally rebuilds a farther image. To enjoy the movie, the visions of both eyes should be good and equal, the muscle balance between the two eyes needs to be good and convergence should be adequate, explains Dr Ravindra.

The analysis

Supreetha's one eye was defective due to Amblyopia. If her parents had taken her to an eye specialist when she was three or four years old, her blindness could have been treated. Amblyopia cannot be treated after the age of nine, although to get good binocular vision, treatment should be completed by the age of five.

It involves wearing glasses and applying a patch to close the good eye so as to exercise the defective eye. Supreetha now has to spend her entire life using one eye. She cannot enjoy 3D movies and 3D comics, and can never become an aircraft pilot either.

Mariamma had anisometropia, where one eye had higher power than the other. Although she sees well with both eyes, her two eyes send images of different sizes to the brain, which has to do extra work to fuse the two images. Brain can usually take up this additional work, but in an artificial scenario like a 3D movie, it becomes too much for it to bear. Today, she has gotten this issue corrected by advanced EpiLasik surgery and no longer has to use unsightly glasses of different powers.

The root cause for Ganesh's headache was convergence insufficiency. Although his eye muscles are used to computer work, a 3D movie puts extra demand on his convergence. Convergence exercises can do him good to some extent. If the problem persists and creeps into his routine life, he could take the help of prisms or get a minor surgery to correct his large exophoria.

You may have abnormal retinal correspondence or a squint and need assessment of ocular motility disturbances. You may not be aware of this at all until you watch a 3D movie. Phoria is a type of squint where the eyes have a tendency to deviate, but are kept together by binocular efforts and needs.

There is a continuous strain on eye muscles to keep the eyes straight. Rarely, diseases like nerve palsies, diabetes, tumours, trauma, even minor head injuries, congenital diseases, myasthenia, thyroid and the like can be the cause. Some of them are treatable. A squint, although ideally corrected before the age of five, can be corrected at any age.

Comfort eating is a way by which people deal with stress, anxiety, boredom, loneliness or unhappiness. How much they eat depends on gender, weight and psychological issues. Comfort foods - generally, sweet, fatty and calorie-rich - may temporarily improve mood and alleviate stress. In other words, many people may be self-medicating with these goodies.

Comfort foods are simple, satisfying and emotional. They're called so for a reason &mdash; they bring back warm memories, tickle the taste buds and soothe the soul. Common comfort foods in the Indian scenario include:

Eating when hungry is both, pleasurable and rewarding - an effect in the brain mediated by neurotransmitters (dopamine, opioids and benzodiazepine). Dopamine affects how much a person wants to eat, whereas the opioids and benzodiazepine affect how much a person likes what is being eaten.

The opioid neurotransmitter system is also involved in response to stress and agitation. The soothing effect of sweet foods depends on the taste rather than the sugar content. Artificially-sweetened foods will work just as fine.

However, the more fatty the foods, the less comfort they will provide over time. Repeatedly eating these foods regulates the neurotransmitter pathways. For this reason, obese people get less enjoyment out of the same amount of comfort food as non-obese people.

Non-judicious consumption of comfort foods can be bad for health. Making a conscious, informed choice on the type of comfort food eaten will help avoid future problems.

Many healthy people take an aspirin daily to reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke, but a new study has found that more than 11 percent of them should not.

Aspirin has well-established benefits, but it also carries the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.The American Heart Association guidelines recommend daily aspirin for primary prevention in people with a 10-year cardiovascular risk of 10 percent or more.

Other guidelines suggest the cutoff should be a risk of six percent. (You can assess your risk at the National Institutes of Health's online risk calculator.)

Researchers studied records of 68,808 patients who were taking aspirin for primary cardiovascular prevention in various kinds of medical practices between 2008 and 2011. They found that 7,972 of them, or 11.6 percent, were taking aspirin daily, despite having a cardiovascular disease risk of less than six percent.

In some groups, inappropriate use was even more common. For example, 17 percent of women taking aspirin had less than a six percent risk. The study was published in The Journal of the American College of Cardiology.

"We need a discussion between the patient and the clinician to see that we're not causing more harm than good," said the senior author, Dr Salim S Virani, a cardiologist at Baylor College of Medicine. Because a lot of patients take aspirin, he added, the "public health risk could be high."]]>Bloodless bypasshttp://www.deccanherald.com/content/456725/bloodless-bypass.html
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/456725/bloodless-bypass.htmlFri, 30 Jan 2015 16:34:50 +0530Jan 30, 2015:Given the shortage for blood for bypass surgeries, bloodless techniques are the way to go, writes Dr Adarsh S Koppula

Blood wastage during a bypass operation is around 25 to 50 percent of estimated blood volume (EBV) and with aggressive use of multiple blood thinners, most patients require homologous blood transfusion.

In India, there are more than 1800 blood banks and the annual requirement for blood for CABG is around 50,000-90,000 litres. Understandably, there is a tremendous shortage.

Homologous blood transfusion, associated with minimal risk, is considered essentially safe. However, in spite of strict screening tests, there exist real risks of transmission of bacterial, viral and other infections and 40 such documented vectors of infections.

Patients who have had bypass operations and have received four or more blood transfusions have a higher rate of surgical infection, mortality and complication rate as compared with those who did not get a blood transfusion.

Excessive blood loss in a bypass operation is because of several reasons, all of which produce an increased bleeding tendency and alter the coagulation mechanism.

This is mainly due to the contact of blood with artificial surfaces of the cardiopulmonary bypass circuit (artificial heart-lung machine). Present-day beating heart surgery abolishes this factor.

Stress of major surgery results in systemic inflammatory response syndrome, which alters the coagulation and fibrinolytic cascades. Also, hypothermia results in clotting problems, leading to excessive blood loss.

A multimodality approach is used to conserve as much of the red blood cells as possible. Minimal blood investigations are made and cell savers are used, where wasted blood is collected and washed clean and this salvaged red blood cells can then be re-infused following surgery.

Another method is predonation of autologous blood either prior to surgery or intraoperatively. Here, the patient's own blood in withdrawn in sufficient quantities and the volume is replaced with saline.

This serves the dual purpose of conserving red cells and reduces the red cell loss due to dilution. This stored patient blood is given back to patient at the end of operation.

Blood conservation in perfusion technology includes use of biocompatible circuit material like heparin bonded circuits, maintenance of normal temperatures of body and heart and minimising hemodilution (decreased concentration of cells and solids in the blood resulting from gain of fluid) by using newer low priming oxygenators and circuits, retrograde priming of the cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) circuit and reinfusing the entire blood prime following the cessation of CPB.

Pharmacological methods include the use of drugs, which help reverse the effect of aspirin on platelet function. Agents such as tranexemic acid, desmopressin, epsilon and amino carpoic acid are known to reduce blood loss in special circumstances. Patients with anaemia preoperative pose another problem, which can be overcome with pretreatment with recombinant human erythropoetin from three weeks prior to surgery.

Half ate 22 grams of freeze-dried blueberry powder (equivalent to a cup of blueberries) daily for eight weeks. The others ate an identical-looking and tasting placebo.

The study, in The Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, found that those who ate the blueberry preparation saw an average 5.1 percent decrease in systolic blood pressure (the top number) and a 6.3 percent decrease in diastolic pressure.

Levels of nitric oxide, known to be involved in relaxing and widening blood vessels, increased significantly in the blueberry eaters. There were no significant changes in the placebo group.

The improvement, the scientists wrote, was moderate, compared with that of blood pressure medicines. But, they said, eating blueberries in larger amounts or for longer periods could increase the effect.

The lead author, Sarah A Johnson, a postdoctoral researcher at Florida State University, said she saw no reason for people to radically change their diets, but that if they were not eating blueberries, they might want to try them.

"There is something very special about the composition of blueberries that is responsible for their effect on blood pressure," she said. "Other fruits and plant extracts have not produced the same result." ]]>Workout right, babyhttp://www.deccanherald.com/content/456723/workout-right-baby.html
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/456723/workout-right-baby.htmlFri, 30 Jan 2015 16:28:09 +0530Neeraj Mehta, Jan 30, 2015:Did you know that you can customise your daily workout sessions according to your body type? Neeraj Mehta shows you how to get the most out of your fitness regime.

The skeletal structure and distribution of muscles and fat varies in women. Oestrogen is a female sex hormone that plays an important role in determining the body shape.

It promotes the development of breasts, hips and affects the female body shapes in a number of ways. While for some the upper body may be quite hefty and legs thin, several other women have slim upper bodies and curvy hips.

Let us look at what kind of workout you must stick to depending on your body type:

Less curvy, lean legs, waist is less defined, hip and bust are in balance; body is rectangular in shape. This type gains weight mostly at the torso and upper thighs.

* Exercise: An overall strength training routine is wonderful to gain magical tone up and strength in the body, but should include high-intensity interval training to increase cardiovascular endurance. If you are performing strength training, exercise for upper and lower bodies should be done with a balance of agonist and antagonist muscles so that the body can develop in symmetry.

Pear-shaped women tend to be larger towards the lower body, like on the legs, hips and waistline. They can lose weight easily from face and upper body, but the challenge is to cut down weight from hips and thigh.

* Exercise: A long session of at least a 30-minute cardio workout is required. The stair climber, elliptical, incline trainer or stepper can boost fat burn during the workout.

Pear-shaped body types should add some customised strength training for the lower body like dead lift, weighted squats, lunges, high box climbing and stiff-legged squats to cut down weight from the lower body.

With a good side view of the body, this type has a rounded bottom. It has a good balance of bust and hip. Shoulders are also proportionate with bust and hips.

* Exercise: This type of body needs to tone-up and because of better balance of different parts, the workout can consist of cardio and strength training. Aerobic training for 30 minutes with a mixture of little interval training should be helpful.

The famous French footwear designer Christian Louboutin once said, "Shoes transform your body language and attitude. They lift you physically and emotionally."

True that! In the earlier days, men settled for anything comfortable in the shoes department. But with changing lifestyles, trends and tastes, they are now ready to experiment. Many shoe designers are tapping into this newfound craze and creating shoes that are diverse and appeal to all kinds of tastes and occasions.

Footwear manufacturing and designing is a large part of the fashion industry and today a massive segment has been dedicated to footwear - from work shoes to hi-style footwear. Reputed online shoes stores offer a great collection of footwear and other accessories, updated with the latest designs. The modern man has no dearth of choices.

Footwear has always been considered as the status symbol of people. Different cultures have created varied forms of footwear, with the essence of durability and quality. Footwear is not just a part of men's wardrobe now. It has become a passion for many.

A big boost to the men's footwear world is the fact that the Indian footwear retail is the fastest growing sector among all other sectors of the Indian market and is expected to sustain its growth in the coming years. Sales are expected to hit 15.7 billion pairs of shoes by 2017 as the per capita spending on footwear increases.

With the merging of business casual in the workplace and beyond, there is a fine line between formal and casual shoes. Many shoes can pass for both, formal and casual, and can go with everything from chinos and jeans to a suit.

Traditionally, shoes had a separate heel, but today, shoes with a wedge and a rubbery heel are in. The 2015 trend in men's dress shoes leans towards square toes rather than wingtips. Say goodbye to narrow and round shapes in shoes and let your feet breathe in some comfy, wide shoes - this goes for both, laced shoes and loafers. As for laces in formal and casual shoes, thin is in.

Here's a dekko at some of the trends in men's footwear for this year:

Colour me bright

Go in for colours like tan, brown, burgundy and purple to make a bold statement with your shoes. These colours are not just for formal footwear, they are also perfect for a casual outing or party with friends. These prominent colours are never out of fashion in the footwear arena and make for a classy appeal.

All-in-one pair

The onslaught of multipurpose shoes is continuously hitting the market and is expected to increase over the coming years. A unique representation of utility, comfort and personality, multipurpose shoes are loved by many. For instance, fisherman sandals can be worn anytime - for a day out or even for a casual hangout; it is comfortable and stylish.

The 'M' effect

Moccasins in suede leather are a smart alternative to your black leather shoes. Semi-formal in nature, they complement formal trousers and chinos perfectly. Suede leather in shades of natural, vibrant and neon colours can make your feet the talk of town. When it comes to moccasins, generally, go for a colour that suits your personality - blue, brown and maroon are instant hits.

Rugged factor

No matter how you look at it, a pair of boots has an undeniable adventurous spirit hammered into them; they stand for defiance, toughness and adventure like no other footwear. Innovative and stylish patterns emerging in this section of the footwear industry reveals the drastic shifts in consumer tastes. Boots are not just functional anymore.

Men are now moving beyond snow boots and rain boots and investing in stylish ankle and desert boots. Ankle boots either with laces, a velcro strip (that fastens the shoe) or an elastic band will be in vogue in 2015.

Casual you

Initially designed as practical footwear option for all sorts of athletic activities, the sneakers morphed into what is now a fundamental piece of the modern man's urban getup. Integrating function and style in a series of classic or revised hybrid silhouettes is what the new footwear movement is all about. The revival of the sports shoe is set to conquer new heights in the seasons to come.

Breaking the fashion rules, men's sneakers are definitely on the way to building a new legacy for themselves. High-fashion sneakers or fashionable men's trainers are also a part of embracing innovation, comfort and quality. And it is for those who love details.

(The author is director, Alberto Torresi)]]>They do, in stylehttp://www.deccanherald.com/content/455319/they-do-style.html
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/455319/they-do-style.htmlFri, 23 Jan 2015 18:11:49 +0530Harshikaa Udasi, Jan 24, 2015: Gone are the days when an Indian wedding was defined by the couple's caste and creed. Today, it's a reflection of the bride and groom, their tastes and extravaganzas, writes Harshikaa Udasi

This traditional Maharashtrian family had certainly never seen anything like that before. But Amit Kadam was rather pleased with his decision. When the Mumbai-based cartoonist decided to take the plunge last year, he wanted to ensure it wouldn't be a run-of-the-mill experience. And it started off with the invite itself. Amit's relatives were surprised - "some surely even shocked" - with caricatures of him and his to-be bride.

"Gauri and I had put our heads together and designed a little comic strip inviting everyone for the wedding." With the comic strip talking about their first meeting to the final proposal and the aye, relatives knew they were headed for anything but traditional.

The T word is no longer an epithet for weddings in India. Young couples tying the knot want to do everything in their own unique style. And this has made way for a new brand of customised services - from matchmaking websites to RSVPs online, from pre-nuptial shoots to HD-quality wedding filming, from exotic destination wedding planning to bespoke honeymoon packages. The big fat Indian wedding just got, well, bigger and fatter.

Think about this. What did you wear when you got married? Possibly you remember the shop you bought it at; most certainly you remember the price! Who went shopping with you? Your parents, siblings, good friends and/or extended family, too (if you were unlucky). The current trend is to have your personal stylist to create a look for you for the wedding and even the trousseau.

Hyderabad-based Malini S, 25, opted for one. "Obviously, I wanted to look great. I also wanted no stress while shopping and a designer touch to the whole episode. The stylist met me about a couple of times and we discussed my preferences. She took into account my body type and budget, and suggested a themed look to go with the wedding we had planned in Bali.

Initially, I wasn't too keen on a gown for my farewell dinner. But she suggested I consider it over my Kanjeevaram&hellip;and it was a huge hit!"Invite them all

Websites are getting popular, too, as they are trying to make inroads into a very conservative area of weddings - inviting your loved (and not-so-loved) ones. Handing out personal invitations is not just tedious and time-consuming, but also an expensive affair. Moreover, it is fraught with casualties over that uncle, whom we missed out on and the daughter whose in-laws are fuming over being invited for fewer occasions. Make it simple, make it hassle-free.

A wedsite creates a beautiful space for the couple online, not just creating an e-invite offering details of the wedding and its occasions and requesting RSVPs, but also posting pictures of the wedding album, tracking their important milestones, creating a wedding registry and enabling a wedding blog.

Rajesh Bardeshkar opted for a wedsite as he wanted to document every single moment of his wedding and ensure that everyone from his extended family in California to his friends in Mumbai gets an invite. "It would have been cumbersome to invite each of them through a phone call and terribly expensive to post a wedding card," he says.

Have some fun

Entertainment also takes on a new name during weddings. With destination weddings becoming de rigueur, couples are ready to experiment with more. When Khushi and Anish got married in Tanzania, they wanted their guests to enjoy a good mix of the local flavour with an Indian effect. For the airport transfers of the guests to the hotel, they asked anchor RJ Rahul Manjal to put together a radio show centred around their wedding. "It was a unique concept. We did a good blend of Bollywood songs with a dash of Gujarati and dollops of romance. I even gave information about Tanzania and things to look out for, but all of it was interspersed with fabulous songs, just like a radio show!" he says.

Gaurang Mor, director, Saga 247 - The Event Destination says, "People go to great lengths to see that their guests are well entertained. Play zones for little children with specially-groomed nannies and gaming zones for teens with Play Stations are provided nowadays. For the mehndi ceremony, since ladies have to sit it out at a single place for three to four hours, movies are played on large screens." Live radio shows and fashion shows are the thing to do at sangeet parties, too!

For the record

Gone are the days of the humble photographer and videographer asking you to 'looks here pliss'. Enter the HD camera-wielding wedding filmers who shoot the wedding in absolute Bollywood style. On demand, even the music for the films is original. Many couples refer to current trends in Bollywood films and ask the filmers to retain that vibe.

Those wielding the camera keep those guidelines in mind, but usually let the shoot take its natural course and retain a documentary and candid style. Chintan from Mumbai always wanted to serenade his lady, but wasn't really gifted in the space. For his wedding, he organised for a special romantic number to be written and composed for his fianc&eacute; and then lip-synced as a singer sang live for him backstage! "It's about living your fantasy, isn't it? Your wedding day is probably the most extravagant you will ever be!" he reasons.

Of course, the bride and the groom and the immediate family are having the time of their lives. But what about the others - relatives and friends who have been invited to this extravaganza? Mahesh Hinduja, who has been to two successive, long-drawn, out-destination weddings recently, says he is tired of the "flights of fancy". He feels that the intimacy of a wedding is lost in trying to outdo the previous couple in terms of uniqueness. "I'd appreciate it for the novelty; your eyes light up every time you go to a wedding, seeing the newness they bring in. But I'd rather just bless the couple and have my kulfi and come back," he confesses.

But Mahesh is, perhaps, in minority here. The rest of the lot is rejoicing. The couple is pleased as a punch, the parents are coming to terms with the novelty of it all and the facility providers are happy to be in service. What happens to the traditional bandwallahs and the tentwallahs who specialised in putting up a shaadi mandap in no time? "That sounds so outdated now," says Malini. "You cannot expect a young couple to not desire a fancy, customised wedding. And if it comes at a price, so be it."Folks, let's crack open the bubbly!]]>Your place or mine?http://www.deccanherald.com/content/455314/your-place-mine.html
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/455314/your-place-mine.htmlFri, 23 Jan 2015 18:06:49 +0530Jisha Krishnan, Jan 24, 2015:Prospective brides and grooms today would rather meet first in a neutral setting like a coffee shop rather than under the customary, familial gaze, discovers Jisha Krishnan

The next time you step into a coffee shop, look around. Do you see a man and a woman chatting over a cuppa? Of course, you do! Now, cross out the couples - those obviously in a relationship; the friends - nothing more, nothing less; the professionals - talking business.

Who's left? The duo trying to fill in awkward silences with forced smiles. Perhaps, one is asking all the questions (what are your hobbies? What kind of movies do you watch? Do you like dogs?), while the other diligently gives the responses.

They are hard to miss. They are the prospective new-age brides and grooms. Rather than meet at either of their residences, as was the norm until recently, they prefer to get the first dekko in a neutral location, some place that offers them sufficient anonymity and privacy. It's a matrimonial trend that has been catching up not just in the big cities, but in tier-two cities as well.

"We did the traditional 'boy and family come home for tea' ritual once. It was a disaster! They kept bombarding us with questions - some really inane - while we tried to grin and bear with it. After all, we had nowhere to run. Getting them to leave was a real challenge," recalls Yogita Vyas. The media professional has since made a policy decision to never get a prospective groom home, unless the two first meet a couple of times in a restaurant or coffee shop to ensure that they are compatible enough to let the elders take the talks to the next level.

"It makes more sense to get to know the person first. That way, when his mother asks you if you know to cook or what time you wakeup every day, you know whether to be sarcastic or sweet. Because there's already an equation in place," explains the 27-year-old, who is yet to find her perfect match.

For many young professionals who find themselves in the arranged marriage set-up it becomes important not to lose their sense of 'self' in the whole matrimonial rigmarole. Girls don't fancy walking in with a tea tray for the probable groom and family, while the guys would rather not discuss packages and perks at work with curious strangers. Just because it's not a love marriage, it doesn't have to mean that the boy and girl have little say in the matter.

"When you meet someone interesting on a matrimonial site and the basics seem to match, it's only natural that you would want to meet her in person. No matter how much you WhatsApp or chat online, there's no substitute for a one-on-one interaction in person," says Gautam Bhave, a 30-year-old entrepreneur, who recently found "the one", after much scouting and coffee sampling.

The traditional venues for such interactions don't work simply because it's hard to be candid in the presence of well-meaning folks from both sides. "I can't imagine the girl telling me about her drinking or partying preferences in front of my family, even if her parents may be in the know. I certainly won't be discussing my smoking, late nights or anything personal for that matter in such eclectic company," explains Gautam.

For Reema Nandan, it's more about not missing out on the romance. She wants to be wooed, so what if it's in the arranged marriage space! Whether the horoscopes match or not is something for the elders to discuss; she doesn't really care about "all those things". "What matters is the effort the guy takes to look presentable, his little gestures of thoughtfulness, the way he makes me feel," says the 24-year-old banker.

The last time she met a prospective match at a coffee shop, it took her less than 10 minutes to know that it wasn't meant to be. "On the website, he seemed like this really great guy with a wonderful sense of humour. Even when we spoke on the phone, he came across as a happy-go-lucky kind of person. Alas! He wasn't anything like that when we met," she recounts. The obvious smartphone addiction was only one of the put-offs. "The way he spoke to the staff at the coffee shop was totally obnoxious," she adds.

So, the next time you want to kill time while waiting for your caffeine boost, you know what to do. Spot the potential bride and groom in the crowd. Watch the drama unfold as the conversations slide in between the sips and smiles. Will they, won't they? A lot, they say, can happen over coffee. Matches are made, life lessons learnt.

]]>Premature greying, still a grey areahttp://www.deccanherald.com/content/455312/premature-greying-still-grey-area.html
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/455312/premature-greying-still-grey-area.htmlFri, 23 Jan 2015 18:01:47 +0530Bani Anand, Jan 24, 2015:What is premature greying? Any individual with more than 50 percent grey hair before the age of 50 is said to be prematurely grey. Greying may be gradual or overnight. So why does the human hair turn grey?

We have cells in our hair follicles called melanocytes. These generate melanin, which in turn gives hair its colour. More the melanin, darker your hair. When melanin stops producing the pigment, it starts turning grey.

Many age-related pathologies also have premature greying as a risk factor. There are several studies that have tried to understand the relationship between premature hair greying and the risk of myocardial infarction, osteoporosis and a shortened life span.

Treatment of premature greying depends on the causes of greying. A thorough investigation and detailed history is needed to understand the cause of greying. Lifestyle changes in terms of healthy eating and sleeping habits make a huge difference. Smoking and alcohol consumption should be reduced. Exercise is essential to increase the metabolic rate of the body and flush out harmful toxins responsible for greying.

Despite the recent girth of research on hair pigmentation and greying, treatment and prevention remain elusive. There are several products in the market that do slow the process. However, a permanent solution or cure for those greying crowns of glory is yet to be created. (The author is founder director, Hairline International)]]>Detox diet: A mythhttp://www.deccanherald.com/content/455310/detox-diet-myth.html
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/455310/detox-diet-myth.htmlFri, 23 Jan 2015 17:59:19 +0530Usha S, Jan 24, 2015:Going overboard by following fad diets like detox can only do you harm. Usha S explains why your body needs those fats and carbohydrates, contrary to what the popular diets may claim.

As we gobble down all this junk, we are told that to undo the harm done, we need to go in for a detox diet. Something that'll get rid of the unwanted 'toxins' that have entered our body through this junk food.

Detoxification is an alternative medical approach, that includes one or more dietary methods like fasting, consuming exclusive foods or avoiding specific foods. According to which, the list of negative items are foods that are rich in carbohydrates and fat; the need of the day is fruits, vegetables, juices, herbs and water.

These 'cathartic activities' promise us light bodies, that are fat-free and cellulite-free. These diets claim to broom out all the unwanted materials from our body and make it a fresh clean bowl with great metabolism and good immunity from diseases.

Popular choices

There are various ways of body cleaning that are in vogue. Some involve the use of herbs and supplements that specifically speed up the efficacy of the process of body cleaning. Several natural remedies are also employed. Colon cleansing is another process, which has been in existence since many centuries.

When it comes to detox diets, it is generally assumed that most of the foods we consume are contaminated with many additives like food colour, preservatives, flavouring essence and fatty oils. The Master Cleanser or lemonade diet is one detox diet, which is very popular, based on the maple syrup/lemon syrup.

Another popular one is maintaining a specific diet for a specific period, which is based on vegan food habits combined with a variety of whole food and nutritional supplements. Raw food diet is a generic diet, which advocates consumption of raw, uncooked food. Detox diet also includes drinking of almond milk, aloe vera water, varieties of juices extracted from different types of grass and concentrated chlorophyll shots.

Not nature's way

However, medical experts and researchers do not hold the same view. They feel the 'toxins' in question do not even exist. Our body system has the natural ability of maintaining itself with several organs dedicated to cleanse the blood and gut. Research shows that the body's own detoxification system is very sophisticated and versatile. They are developed in such a way as the natural environment that we evolved in is hostile.

The human body's sophisticated mechanism deals well with toxic wastes. Most external chemicals - like antibiotics or chemical pollutants that are not produced in human body - are called 'xenobiotics' and they are broken down by the liver and kidneys and are eliminated naturally through bile and urine.

This is more commonly known as 'metabolism'. With such an efficient system already in place, detox diets are only effective to promote a false sense of wellbeing rather than facilitating any real change.

However, many people are prepared to take unnecessary risks, going in for unproven detox diets to get rid of toxins. Many a times such attempts may seriously disrupt our fine body system. Detoxification is an artificial attempt to eliminate the accumulated waste through dietary regimen.

The philosophy is based on unlikely pressures that accumulated toxins cause - like sluggish metabolism or undue weight gain. Some toxins do accumulate in our body. Some are carcinogenic and their removal is unlikely by cosmetic treatments and other dietary processes.

Simple strategy

The best way to keep our metabolism in place is a simple process. A balanced diet that involves consuming nutrients like carbohydrates, fats and proteins in the right proportions. And regular physical exercise for about 40 to 45 minutes a day is a healthy regimen.

Nutrition experts feel that the intake of carbohydrates by our body should never be compromised. It is a necessity to perform basic metabolic functions and the shortage of the same in the long run makes us starve for the required energy.

Free radicals or chemically-reactive molecules contain oxygen and are naturally generated as a by-product of the metabolic process. These molecules can potentially damage healthy cells and tissues. This is considered as one of the causes of cancer or inflammatory diseases. The best way of boosting the body's defence system against free radicals is by eating about 400 grams of fruits and vegetables everyday.

So, have a healthy, balanced diet and go in for simple physical exercises. This is the only way to maintain the balance between one's energy intake and expenditure. This is also a foolproof way to ensure that our body is functioning at its best.]]>New year, new junkhttp://www.deccanherald.com/content/455308/year-junk.html
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/455308/year-junk.htmlFri, 23 Jan 2015 17:54:45 +0530Nicholas Bakalar, Jan 24, 2015, NYTNSPeople buy extra groceries during the holidays, much of it junk food. But what happens once the holidays are over? They keep buying the extra junk, a new study has found.

Over eight months, researchers tracked 207 volunteer households, with purchases recorded by the store where they bought their groceries. They used a zero-to-three scale to judge the relative nutrition of each purchase (for example, zero for sugared soda; three for skim milk). The study was published in PLOS One.

Around Thanksgiving, spending began to increase. By Christmas week it had increased about 33 percent over the average pre-holiday week. After New Year's Day, spending dropped slightly, then increased again to a peak at the end of January, to even higher than Christmas week.

Overall, participants bought about 16 percent more calories during the holidays than earlier, and 91 percent of the increase came from high-calorie, low-nutrition foods.

"In the new year, people resolve to eat healthier," said the lead author Lizzy Pope, an assistant professor of nutrition at the University of Vermont, "but they continue to buy unhealthy food that defeats their goals. We go on automatic pilot. If we can increase our conscious thought in the grocery store, that might be the first step in making our purchasing match up with the goals we set."

With an astonishing rise in cardiovascular diseases around the world, more and more people are making efforts to keep their risk factors like cholesterol, homocysteine, blood glucose and excess weight in check. But more often than not, the link between Vitamin D deficiency and heart health is overlooked.

Vitamin D has been known for its role in calcium homeostasis and bone health. Now researchers are suggesting that people with lower levels of Vitamin D are likely to suffer from cardiovascular diseases and other severe illnesses.

The consequences of Vitamin D deficiency for organs other than bone are not fully known, but it may lead to serious disorders like impaired immunity, increased autoimmunity, myopathy, diabetes mellitus, and an increased risk of colon, breast, and prostate cancers.

Of late, many people have undergone a sudden change in lifestyle, which involves living a fast-paced, hectic life. With desk jobs requiring them to stay indoors for the majority of the day, it leaves no scope for sun exposure. And the sun remains the basic source for Vitamin D.

At least 75 percent of our body needs to be exposed directly to sunlight every day to get the required amount of Vitamin D. In the last few years, research has highlighted the protective role of Vitamin D, wherein limited sun exposure, application of sunscreen and poor dietary intake make Indians vulnerable to Vitamin D deficiency. Moreover, most Indians fail to get sufficient intake of Vitamin D through their diet due to limited food sources, more of vegetarian preferences and lack of products fortified with Vitamin D in the market.

Also, very few people are aware of the significance of consuming Vitamin-D-rich foods. Other factors like age, ethnicity, obesity, chronic kidney disease, liver diseases and certain medical conditions like Crohns disease, cystic fibrosis and celiac disease further predispose a person to higher risk of Vitamin D deficiency.

Patients on a wide variety of medications, including anticonvulsants and medications to treat AIDS/HIV, are also at a risk of Vitamin D deficiency.

So, with the rising prevalence of Vitamin D deficiency among the Indian population emerging as a grave public health problem, it definitely needs paramount attention. Go, get some sun; it's the best way to stay healthy.

(The author is senior consultant, department of orthopaedics, Max Hospital, Delhi)]]>Sleep well, kidhttp://www.deccanherald.com/content/455306/sleep-well-kid.html
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/455306/sleep-well-kid.htmlFri, 23 Jan 2015 17:39:38 +0530Nicholas Bakalar, Jan 24, 2015, NYTNS:Napping helps infants to develop their memory and retain new behaviours they have learnt, a new study from the University of Sheffield has revealed.

Babies devote the majority of their time to sleeping, but until now very little was known about the links between sleep and the unprecedented levels of growth and development that take place during their first year of life.

In a study, which is the first of its kind, researchers from the University of Sheffield and Ruhr University Bochum, Germany, found that the notion of 'sleeping like a baby' is extremely important in declarative memory consolidation - such as retaining facts, events and knowledge.

Researchers explored whether daytime sleep after learning helped babies to remember new behaviour. The study focused on 216 healthy six to 12 month-old infants and tested their ability to recall newly learned skills. The youngsters were shown how to remove and manipulate a mitten from a hand puppet and were given the opportunity to reproduce these actions after delays of four and 24 hours.

Infants who did not nap after learning were compared with age-matched infants who napped for at least 30 minutes within four hours of learning the target actions. The study, which is published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America (PNAS), showed that only infants who had napped after the learning activity remembered the target actions, whilst those who hadn't napped showed no evidence of remembering the new information and behaviour.

After a 24-hour delay children in the napping group also exhibited significantly better recall compared with infants in the no-nap group.

A normal uterine bleeding in a woman lasts for three to four days. During these days, no more than three to four fresh pads should be changed in a day. A regular period should appear once in about 28 days and she should not experience greater pain than perhaps just a feeling of low abdominal cramps.

Besides these, the menstrual cycle should start when the girl is around 12-14 years of age and must stop when the woman is approximately 45-48 years old.

When there are anomalies in this cycle, like menstruation starting at an abnormally young age or continuing well beyond 50 years, it is termed abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB). The process of menstruation is under the complete control of the ovaries, which are governed by the hormones of pituitary and hypothalamus glands.

Thyroid, and to a certain extent, adrenals too have a say in it. Any variation in the quantity and timing of these hormones will inevitably disturb either the regularity of menstrual periods and/or the amount of blood loss. Abnormality in the clotting mechanism may also be a culprit.

When the cause of AUB is purely hormonal, no organic lesions will be present. This situation, formerly called dysfunctional uterine bleeding, needs thorough investigation of the various hormonal levels. The pituitary gland, a tiny ductless organ situated at the base of the brain, is controlled by the hypothalamus, which produces certain endocrines to incite the release of the pituitary hormones. These reach the ovaries via the blood stream.

The ovaries then respond to them and secrete the key female hormones - oestrogen and progesterone. Oestrogen is in control during the first half of the menstrual cycle, whereas progesterone governs the second half. Any ups and downs in the complex orchestra of events will provoke significant abnormality in the delicate mechanism of menstruation.Cause for worry

Why should we be worried if uterine bleeding gets abnormal? Because, it has a negative impact on the woman's general health and wellbeing, as it induces anaemia. The quality of her life is affected, as is her sexuality and fertility. AUB should be viewed with concern, especially if the problem lasts for more than six months.

When the woman consults a gynaecologist about AUB, any pregnancy is first excluded. Similarly, organic etiologies like uterine polyps, fibroids, malignancies and the like are also looked into and treated accordingly, if present. Here, pelvic ultrasound screening (either abdominal or vaginal) and hysteroscopy come in handy. If the woman is over 40 years of age, an endometrial biopsy is a must.

Latrogenic causes like intrauterine contraceptive device, unscientific use of sex steroids and so on, must be thought of and corrected. A detailed blood test for coagulation dysfunctions must also be done. Ovarian disorders are diagnosed by a careful gynaecological examination and imaging. Thyroid tests must be done. Pelvic Inflammation could also be the mischief-maker.

While treating AUB, anaemia should also be simultaneously corrected. When there is hormonal imbalance, progesterone is usually given in the second half of the menstrual cycle. Oral contraceptive pills in proper dosage may also be advised. Pituitary hormones are at times given. The thickened hyperplastic lining of the uterus (endometrium) is either curetted and sent for histopathological examination, or endometrial ablation is performed in selected cases. These are just outpatient procedures.

Nowadays, thermal and ballooning methods are also in practice.

So, when do we think of removing the uterus (hysterectomy) in such cases? This procedure is proposed when hormone therapy has not been effective or when the woman already has sufficient number of children and has no desire for any more. Hysterectomy alone (routine/laparoscopic) will not have any deleterious effect on the woman's body as this organ does not produce any hormone on its own. The patient need not have any apprehensions on this score, because it becomes a redundant organ after the child-bearing age.

In case, the ovaries also have to be removed, the woman is invariably given hormone replacement therapy for a particular period. If the problem is overweight or anxiety syndrome, efficient counseling will help. If the ovaries are polycystic, it is treated with insulin-sensitisers.

All will be well if AUB is diagnosed and treated in time. But, unfortunately, many women are hesitant to disclose it. They tend to hide this debilitating aberration until it reaches a stage needing complicated redressal. Always remember that a stitch in time will prevent further complications.

Necklaces as headgears? Yes, a delicate neckpiece can adorn the head as a stylish tiara. Or a stunning single strand of diamonds, taken from a neckpiece, can be worn around the head, as a maatha patti.

"In 2014, floral patterns and prints were used exquisitely in bags and other accessories. But this year, it's the turn of jewellery to go floral. The floral bloom will be evident in the intricate necklaces and feminine earrings," says Ashish Saboo MD and CEO, Addon Retail Private Limited.

"This season, there is a move towards the cooler and softer side of the colour spectrum like mint green, lemon yellow and pastel pinks. Pieces teamed with semi-precious stone beads are also here to stay. Bold and chunky motifs are trending and when it comes to weighing in on the look of 2015, attention to detail is important. Teaming traditional kundan pieces with western evening wear is going to do wonders on the runway," adds Jasmine Shah, co-founder of Just Jewellery. Let's take a look at some of the trendy, quirky accessories to up the glam quotient this year.Talk to the brow

The textured brow trend is hot and here to stay. Bring some focus to your brows with gemstones and shimmer. If you like a subtle style, go in for colourful bindis around your eyebrows, just like a bride. You can also put them along the outer corners of your eyes. Combined with big earrings, brow art will lend you a fresh look.Heels that wow

Lace-up heels are art for your feet. These decorative heels have laces that start at your toes and end at your ankles, enhancing the beauty of your pedicured legs. The style is so sexy and versatile that they also come in beach sandals and punk-style boots. Wear them with abstract prints and you are ready to rock. Matter of curves

Say goodbye to skinny belts and say hello to figure-flattering sash belts this year. Highlight your curves with an obi-style wrap belt. You can even let the wrap hang loose at the hip for a more casual appeal.

Eye in focus

Eyewear gets a flashy makeover this season, with over-the-top and sizzling colours. Ditch those monochromes and breathe life into your eyewear with some neutral, pastel shades. Mirrored lenses broaden their spectrum in hues like lime green and bright blue. Classic retro frames are getting a makeover with colours like leather brown, cranberry red and outdoor-inspired neutrals. Bold, broad frames are in. Chains of beauty

Body jewellery, especially chains, have made a huge comeback. Worn in different styles, bare or over clothing, they make a hot statement. Pair cross-body chains with a flowy dress or a casual tee. An attractive piece of jewellery that softly falls over your leg across your thigh or even the entire leg, thigh chain is all set to take the fashion world by storm. Even arm chains are going to be big this year. Draped gracefully along your shoulder to your arm, these chains add a delicate touch of sparkle.

Sport a slogan

Nothing says modern and funky like slogan bracelets. So, stack them up in layers on your wrists and let them speak for themselves. Go in for tarnished metal ones for a groovy appeal. Leather chords and nylon threads add a new dimension.

Power of flower

"Floral patterns are making their way into 2015 like never before. From large and loud to tiny details, it's all about going floral this year," says designer Kiran Uttam Ghosh. The easiest way to sport floral prints is through head accessories. Add a pretty angle to your pastel dress with a floral crown or go in for a woodstock-inspired hippie headpiece for the bohemian in you.Loud and bold

2015 will be all about irregularity when it comes to earrings. Sport them in varied colours and shapes.

Tassels, stones and chokers, which were on everybody's fashion list last year, will continue to dominate this year. Long-chain pendant necklaces will make a comeback with the pendants becoming louder and bolder.

Leather is better

Leather accessories will be the game changer in 2015. Leather boots, necklaces and belts will get a big thumbs up this year. While natural genuine leather comes in beautiful shades of wine, blue, black and browns, 2015 spring-summer will be welcomed by pleasant and gregarious shades of tangerine, toasted almond and scuba blue.

Bags to match

Valentino Buffoni, designer, Phive Rivers predicts, "2015 will experience totes as a constant trend in the women's accessories segment, along with shoulder bags and satchels. Briefcase bags and box-shaped bags will be the trendsetters in corporate spaces. For the casual day-outings, we foresee fringes, fur bags, textile-embellished and metal-accessorised bags along with innovative surface ornamentations, highlighting different weaving techniques. Informal meetings will be adorned by varied designs and geometrical patterns like envelope bags and clutches.

Macho bags will also make a return, where we are likely to see young,confident women carrying military-style bucket bags and haversacks of the past with utmost oomph. 2015 is sure to push back old-fashioned regular silhouettes into the closet, while natural leathers clubbed with striking designs will make it out into the public life."]]>Wellbeing..http://www.deccanherald.com/content/449969/wellbeing.html
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/449969/wellbeing.htmlFri, 26 Dec 2014 17:38:43 +0530Dr K V Arun, Dec 27, 2014:To keep smiling through festivities:

With the festive fervour in the air, we will all, no doubt, indulge in sinful delicacies. And it is during this time that bacteria present in the mouth will multiply and cause diseases. But you can prevent this by exercising some caution.

* Hard as it may be, the prudent thing would be to avoid binge eating.

* Rinse your mouth vigorously even at the risk of losing the pleasant, lingering after-taste of your favourite sweet. It is a good way of preventing bacteria accumulation anywhere in the mouth.

* After eating a particularly sticky sweet, you can consider brushing, especially those who already have a number of decayed teeth or diagnosed gum problems.

* Brushing diligently, twice a day, is mandatory. Inter-dental aids such as floss or interdental brush must be used at least once a day, preferably in the night

* An antibacterial mouth wash may be used at least for as long as the festive season lasts.

* Children are more susceptible to diseases during this time. Parents are often too held up with other things to pay attention.

However, it is important to exercise extra vigil to ensure that children continue to take care of their teeth, even while enjoying their sweets. They should brush their teeth daily and rinse their mouth with water post every meal.

* When it comes to older individuals, there is probably an increased prevalence for diseases such as diabetes.

Uncontrolled eating may not only spoil teeth, but also worsen blood sugar levels, which could in turn lead to several complications, including gum disease.

The festive season comes with its set of challenges, especially for oral hygiene. However, with a little effort, one can easily ensure good oral health and hold on to that sparkling smile.

(The author is periodontist, Apollo White Dental)

]]>The end, a new beginninghttp://www.deccanherald.com/content/449966/end-beginning.html
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/449966/end-beginning.htmlFri, 26 Dec 2014 17:32:53 +0530Suja Natarajan, Dec 27, 2014:When optimism is a way of life, the setbacks and disappointments always have a silver lining. So, let the regrets of 2014 not hold you back from the promise of 2015, proposes Suja Natarajan

Timon: Hakuna Matata, what a wonderful phrase!Pumbaa: Hakuna Matata, ain't no passing craze!Timon: It means no worries, for the rest of your daysTimon and Pumbaa: It's our problem-free philosophySimba: Hakuna Matata?Pumbaa: Yeah, it's our motto.Simba: What's a motto?Pumbaa: You know kid, these two words will solve all your problems!

Wise words, indeed! For those who haven't watched the Disney movie Lion King, this is the song that Timon and Pumbaa sing to little Simba to help him forget the past - all those bad things that he could do nothing about.

If only we could do the same; not mull over the past or worry about the future! As much as we may want to do our best, there are times when our dreams or best-laid plans are crushed by things that are beyond our control. What do we do then? Stop dreaming? While the glass looks half-full to some people, the power of pessimism makes most of us see the glass as half-empty always.

When we fill our mind with negative self-talk all through the day, it's only natural that most of us have a pessimistic outlook towards life. As a new year beckons, let's make a pledge to give optimism a chance. Look at that glass with new eyes.

Most of us don't realise that the human brain is capable of being altered by consistent thought patterns. Mahalakshmi Navin, a Bengaluru-based consulting psychologist, says that our negative thought patterns are so deeply ingrained that we are often unaware of them.

"When our brain is rewired with negative thoughts and emotions, it causes prolonged stress and irreversible damage to the brain cells. Being optimistic predisposes you to take on life and its challenges with a 'can-do' attitude, which is a prerequisite for both, happiness and success," she maintains.

When life gives you lemons, make lemonade, believes Virali Modi. As a person who has overcame several hurdles in her life, including a neck down paralysis at a young age, she feels that being positive has certainly made her a better person.

"Initially, I went into depression when I thought that the world was unfair to me. But with tremendous support and motivation from my parents, especially my mom, I gradually realised that things are bound to happen for some reason. The outcome may not be what I expect, but it might make me a stronger person. My positive attitude has made me stronger mentally, and it is reflected in my overall health&hellip;it's motivational for me if my positivity helps others in some way," says the actress, model and writer.

Your attitude can make you a winner or a loser. If you keep playing the victim time and again, chances are that life will just pass you by, without letting you in on any of her pleasures.

Bhawna Agrawal, a writer and blogger, has come to realise that it is possible to have fulfilling relationships only when you have an affable attitude towards others. "When I got married, it was initially tough for me to cope with a new person and a new atmosphere, as I was judgmental about a lot of things.

I later realised that it is not fair to expect either my husband or myself to change. I changed my perception and gave my unconditional support to the relationship, which has now turned stronger. We have built a beautiful and sustained relationship," she shares.

Life has this uncanny ability to knock us down just when we think we can't fall any lower. The strongest and most successful people are likely to have experienced their share of ups and downs before becoming incredibly stronger and better people. It's your choice to beat an adverse situation with a positive attitude, says Virali.

"My mom lost her memory when she suffered from a stroke. She couldn't recognise any of us. We used that opportunity to refresh her memory only with positive experiences. She has recovered and doesn't remember any of her bad experiences. As a family, it was a terrible situation we had to deal with, which we turned into a better one with a positive attitude," she explains.

Just like everything has its flip side, too much of optimism can also be a bad thing. "Positive thinking may not work, if that is the only strategy you employ. A healthy approach is when you counterbalance positive thinking with a healthy dose of reality checks followed with action.

For example, if you believe that you can ace an exam that you need to appear for, you may not prepare enough for it. If you are too optimistic about your health, you may ignore the health risks, thinking that nothing will go wrong," says Mahalakshmi.

While it is important to develop a positive outlook for better results in life, it is equally important to keep it realistic. And spread the positivity with the people around you. Here's the way to do it right:

Choose well

The foremost step is to increase awareness of your negative thoughts and reactions to situations. Identify the situations that you are negative about and imagine that situation if you were to be positive. When such a situation presents itself, replace the negative with a positive attitude. Like any habit, practice makes perfect.

Optimism is a choice, and it's up to you to find the good in any situation and choose to be happy.

Go with the flow

Positive people learn to go with the flow of life instead of evading it. Accept that life is imperfect, and you don't have control on its outcomes. Acceptance helps to view challenges as opportunities for personal growth.

Mind the company

It's difficult to remain positive if you are in the company of negative people. The people with whom you spend most of the time influence your happiness, success and even your future.

Positive people will give you all the encouragement to do something, while negative people will give reasons as to why you can't. Your life is too important to waste it in negativity.Say your thanks

Research in positive psychology suggests that gratitude makes people more positive, comfortable about life and its challenges. Grateful people are more agreeable, forgiving and have greater satisfaction with life.

Laugh more

One of the main strengths of positive people is their ability to smile, laugh and find humour in everyday life. Laughter lightens your perspective and makes a challenge look more positive. It helps you feel better in the face of disappointments, loss or adverse situations.

Be prepared

When you prepare for the worst and hope for the best, you can actually handle any situation, no matter how formidable.

Spot the good

At this moment, there is something, which is going great. No matter how small it is, savour the positivity. Determine to spot the good things around you - the smile of your child, the fresh flowers in your garden, the cuddle of your pet or even your ability to get out of bed every morning.]]>Looking back at the miracle that washttp://www.deccanherald.com/content/449965/looking-back-miracle-was.html
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/449965/looking-back-miracle-was.htmlFri, 26 Dec 2014 17:23:57 +0530Dec 27, 2014:People are always blaming their circumstances... I don't believe in circumstances. The people who get on in this world are the people who get up and look for the circumstances they want, and if they can't find them, they make them.- George Bernard Shaw

This is how I'd like every reader to regard the year 2014: The miracle that was. This is how you create - yes, create - the best life for yourself. As George Bernard Shaw said, you need to make those circumstances. And you can because you are powerful. Look on 2014 as a miracle and you'll open up your life to a greater miracle in 2015.

No need to make a list of what's happened. Just let a grateful feeling linger in you so that it accompanies you on the path ahead. For happiness makes us grateful, but gratefulness keeps us happy. Finding the X factor

Carl Jung, the renowned psychologist who treated many troubled people, concluded, "Every one of my patients fell ill because he had lost a spiritual idea... Not one was really healed who did not regain his spiritual outlook." This 'lost spiritual idea' was, in fact, gratitude.

Lose it and the world appears sad, difficult, bleak. Illness follows. If you aren't receiving what you think is your due from a job, business, project, relationship, it's because you aren't focussing on what you're already getting.

If you aren't losing enough weight, it's because you aren't focussing on the weight you've already lost. If you aren't healing quickly, it's because you aren't focussing on the progress your health has already made.Counting your gifts

So, now is the time to focus on the gifts you've been showered with. How, did you ask? For seven days, write every thing that's being gifted to you daily. For example, if you find a rupee coin on the street, a rupee coin has been gifted to you.

When somebody pays you a compliment, you've been gifted with praise and the warmth with it. Similarly, you've been gifted with a fresh breeze cooling your sun-flushed cheeks, a new shoot from your potted plant, a calendar for the New Year...

Write them all down, don't miss a thing. Within a day, you'll find life gifting you, lifting you with the stuff you dreamt of! Focussing is creating.

Gazing at life's wonders

You will also experience for yourself that when the mind is scattered, everything seems unmanageable, but when the mind is focussed, everything seems under control. Miracles are happening all over the world.

A professor at IIT is perfecting a microfluidic chip that needs just two ml of blood for tests as compared to the present five to ten ml, and promises a greater accuracy. Annie Murphy, aged 101, a teacher is coming out of retirement to motivate and encourage the unemployed.

Indeed, I insist, please don't miss life's wonders - where there were only seven wonders in the world, there are many more today.

Come out of the mists of misery by focussing on how things are getting better with each passing day. Come out into life's luminosity! This is how you focus on your wellbeing.Making it good

As George Bernard Shaw beautifully put it, "Better keep yourself clean and bright; you are the window through which you must see the world".

Remain grateful, too. It's how you set incentives for joy and love and wellness - the miracles to be.

You make darn sure that good stuff, wonderful and positive stuff, goes into you, whether it is food, events, thoughts, habits and that this good stuff stays inside you. It's what is within you that you carry with you into the New Year, the new life, the new job, the new relationship. For the old will appear fresh and new.]]>That gut feeling...http://www.deccanherald.com/content/449964/that-gut-feeling.html
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/449964/that-gut-feeling.htmlFri, 26 Dec 2014 17:17:42 +0530Dr Anu Gupta, Dec 27, 2014:The way in which you eat your food matters as much as you what you consume. Dr Anu Gupta tells you where you might be going wrong and how you can rectify your eating habits.

One of the first steps to eating healthier is getting your digestion on track. Did you know that the health of your digestive system is crucial to your overall health and wellbeing?

To get started, first take a good look at how you feel after you eat. This will give you some idea about how well you are digesting your food. In today's world, almost everyone suffers from compromised gut flora.

This provides the ideal environment for bad bacteria, parasites, viruses and other organisms to flourish, affecting your natural digestive abilities.

When your digestive system is off, it is likely that you will suffer from some type of digestive disorder, such as irritable bowel syndrome, bloating, constipation, diarrhoea, heartburn or reflux, gas and the like.

If left unaddressed, these can even turn into chronic health conditions. But, don't panic. You can still change your lifestyle today, to help you reverse gut problems and bring about balance in your digestive system.Reduce stress

There is a strong link between stress and digestion. Stress has the ability to interfere with your digestive system and your digestive process. It also inhibits salivation and leads to low stomach acid and a lack of the digestive juices required to properly break down your food.

So it is important that you remain calm before, during and after your meal. There are many ways to reduce stress and you just have to find a way that works for you. Try meditation, gentle yoga, walking, sleeping, dancing or anything relaxing - whatever works for you.

Chew your food properly

Digestion actually begins in your mouth, with chewing. Your saliva helps to liquefy and lubricate the food, but it also contains enzymes that begin chemically digesting carbohydrates in your mouth. Before meals, take a deep breath and eat slowly and consciously.

Try not to rush meals, shove food down your throat or grab hurried bites between errands. The more you chew, the easier it will be for your body to digest food and absorb nutrients. A mealtime should be relaxing and enjoyable. Love your liver

You can heal your digestive system by rejuvenating and supporting your liver to work efficiently. There are different ways in which you can do this. One of my favourite ways is to supplement with a herb called Dandelion (also known as Milk Thistle or Silybum Marianum). In addition to this, eat nourishing soups, soup broths, salads and freshly-squeezed juices.

Eat a diet that is made up exclusively of real, whole foods. Try to avoid any kind of branded, processed and fast foods. They are extremely toxic to your digestive system as they are high in refined salt, sugar and oils. Your body does not recognise fake foods and cannot digest them properly.

Water, but not during meals

Water is an essential element for your overall health and digestive system. It is important to drink plenty of water throughout the day for optimum digestive health. Also, remember that it's best for digestion when you drink water about 30 minutes before or after eating a meal. This is because water can dilute the digestive juices and slow down the process.

If you can prevent thirst during meals, it will allow the digestive enzymes to do their job of breaking down the food you eat. If you struggle to drink plain water during the day, try incorporating fresh fruit or lemon slices into your water to boost your intake.Eat fermented foods

Eating fermented foods is one of nature's great healing secrets. The greater the variety of fermented and cultured foods you can include in your diet, the better.

Fermentation allows probiotics, enzymes and nutrients to flourish and multiply. Fruits and vegetables that have been fermented are so potent that a few tablespoons each day will provide the body with a hefty digestive punch that can make a world of difference in gastrointestinal health.

Try including common fermented foods in your diet such as yoghurt, kanji (porridge), fermented vegetables, soy and kimchi (traditional fermented Korean side dish).Probiotics are your friends

Probiotics are microorganisms like healthy bacteria and yeast, that have been shown to dramatically improve gut health. Probiotics will include L. acidophilus, which is a healthy bacterial strain that normally resides in the body, particularly in the mouth, intestines and urinary tract.

Probiotics are easily available as dietary supplements, which can be found in your local health food shop.

Make sure you take a therapeutic dose. This would be approximately 3-10 billion live culture to ensure that you get effective results and change the health of your gut. Supplement with enzymes

Enzymes are proteins that facilitate chemical reactions in living organisms. In fact, they are required for every single chemical action that takes place in your body. All of your cells, organs, bones, muscles, and tissues are run by enzymes.

For maximum results, choose a supplement that has a wide spectrum of digestive enzymes in it. These are widely available in health food stores and natural health shops.

How we eat our food is just as important as what we eat when it comes to how well we digest our food. And good digestion is key for weight loss, cleansing, energy and good health in general.

If you are experiencing digestive problems or a chronic health condition, it is your body speaking to you. Listen to your body and use these ideas to bring balance back to your digestive system. Remember, when your gut is healthy, you will look and feel healthy from the inside out.

For many women, the risk of taking a small dose of aspirin a day may outweigh the benefits. In a 15-year study, Dutch researchers randomised 27,939 healthy female health professionals, average age 54, to take either 100 milligrams of aspirin every other day or a placebo on the same schedule. The report appears online in Heart.

Overall, aspirin use was associated with a reduced risk for cardiovascular disease and colorectal cancer (and in some women, other cancers as well). But in a majority of women - those under 65 - the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding outweighed the benefit.

For women over 65, the risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer increases, but so does the risk of bleeding. Still, the researchers conclude that for women over 65, the benefit of aspirin outweighs the risk. Moreover, using a formula that includes many health and behavioural factors collected in the study - age, smoking, blood pressure, cholesterol and more than two dozen others - the researchers will be able to create a personalised estimate of risk for a given patient.

There are good large studies of the risks and benefits of aspirin, said a co-author, Dr Frank L J Visseren, a professor of vascular medicine at the University Medical Center Utrecht. "But it's difficult to apply a single trial average to all patients. This makes better use of the wealth of information available in a trial."

Nicholas BakalarNYTNS]]>True or False??http://www.deccanherald.com/content/449962/true-false.html
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/449962/true-false.htmlFri, 26 Dec 2014 17:08:04 +0530Katie Thomas, Dec 27, 2014, NYTNSThose patients who are prescribed painkillers are getting more of them for a longer time, according to a new study. Nearly half the people who took the painkillers for more than 30 days in the study's first year were still using them three years later, a sign of potential abuse.

The report, released by the pharmacy benefits manager at Express Scripts, found that nearly 60 percent of patients taking the painkillers to treat long-term conditions were also being prescribed muscle relaxants or anti-anxiety drugs that could cause dangerous reactions.

The study looked at the pharmacy claims of 6.8 million Americans who filled at least one prescription for an opioid between 2009 and 2013. Opioids include commonly used drugs like codeine, morphine, oxycodone and hydrocodone.

"Not only are more people using these medications chronically, they are using them at higher doses than we would necessarily expect," said Dr Glen Stettin, a senior vice-president at Express Scripts. "And they are using them in combinations for which there isn't a lot of clinical justification."

Overdoses involving prescription drugs are a leading cause of accidental death in the United States, and opioid painkillers play a role in about 70 percent of such cases, according to the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

In addition, people who abuse or misuse opioids often take benzodiazepines like the anti-anxiety drug Xanax, CDC data shows.Katie ThomasNYTNS]]>Heal well, at homehttp://www.deccanherald.com/content/449961/heal-well-home.html
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/449961/heal-well-home.htmlFri, 26 Dec 2014 17:04:17 +0530Dr Anitha Arockiasamy, Dec 27, 2014:Technological advancements and dedicated services have made it possible for the ailing to convalesce better, in the comfort of their homes, says Dr Anitha Arockiasamy.

The world is changing and so are lives of people. Everything is fast-paced and there is barely time to stop and care. With these developments in mind, healthcare players have ventured into the home healthcare segment.

Home healthcare brings healthcare services to the comfort of patients' homes. It makes lives easier by giving patients the convenience and access to high-quality care at their own homes.

* Home healthcare steps in when family members are unable to look after the sick person because of various other commitments. It includes medical or non-medical services provided in a person's home.

Home healthcare professionals are nurses, doctors, therapists and caretakers who are trained to treat people suffering from illnesses or injuries.

* Each person's situation is unique and the type of care that is provided can be tailored to suit their needs and environment. When an individual feels that he/ she needs personalised medical attention, home healthcare is the best option.

This could be for anything ranging from post-natal care, physiotherapy, long-term care, palliative care and post-surgery care, to name some.

* It's sometimes advisable to move a patient to his/ her home and continue care, as the rate of recovery at home is always faster and there is a lower chance of secondary infection being contracted.

Most importantly, recovering in the comfort of one's home among the family is a completely different experience. The chance for rehospitalisation is also low in such cases.

Medical situations and availability of services are factors that determine the right time to ask for such a service at home. Home healthcare, which has been around in one way or another for almost 200 years, will continue to evolve and grow, providing professional and competent medical care to people.

Technological advancements and dedicated services have made it possible for the ailing to convalesce better, in the comfort of their homes.

(The author is the President of India Home Health Care)]]>Time to stop bendinghttp://www.deccanherald.com/content/449959/time-stop-bending.html
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/449959/time-stop-bending.htmlFri, 26 Dec 2014 16:57:51 +0530Dr Manoj Miglani, Dec 27, 2014: If you did neglect a calcium-rich diet and fell prey to osteoporosis, the latest technological advances are here to help you lead a better life, writes Dr Manoj Miglani.

Has persistent back pain been hampering your daily activities lately? Are you compelled to lie down several times a day to give rest to your aching back? If yes, then you are not alone. Like many people across the world, you may be suffering from multiple spinal or vertebral compression fractures due to osteoporosis.

Fractures caused by osteoporosis most often occur in the spine, with 7,00,000 people getting affected annually. The International Osteoporosis Foundation states that one in three women and one in five men over the age of 50 will experience osteoporotic fractures, globally. It is time to put the spotlight on the increasing prevalence of osteoporotic spinal fractures and efficacy of minimal access surgeries for their treatment.

Osteoporosis is a disease characterised by low bone mass and increased bone fragility. Unfortunately, osteoporosis often develops unnoticed over many years with no symptoms until a bone breaks. When the small bones of the spine (vertebrae) weaken from osteoporosis, they contract. This often leads to a rounded back, a hump or a curved look to the spine, making it susceptible to fracture. There is a pressing need to create awareness amongst people about spinal fractures, their treatment and measures to prevent recurrence.

Vertebral compression fracture is directly linked with low bone mass density and spine fractures. It occurs when osteoporosis weakens the spinal bones to the point that they crack and compress, leading to a stooped gait, a condition termed as Kyphosis.

Over time, multiple fractures may result in significant loss of height. The rib cage presses down on the pelvis, reducing thoracic and abdominal space. In severe cases, multiple vertebral compression fractures result in impaired pulmonary function, a protuberant abdomen, and because of compressed abdominal organs, early satiety and weight loss.

The most common symptom of a vertebral compression fracture is back pain. The pain typically occurs near the break itself. The pain often gets worse with standing or sitting for a period of time, and is relieved by rest or lying down. While adequate rest and medications may provide relief for a short period of time, in cases where the patient is in severe pain, surgical intervention is recommended.Cutting edge

Spinal bones which have already collapsed cannot be mended with medications and calls for surgery. Fortunately, with the advent of medically-advanced technologies like Balloon Kyphoplasty, spine surgeries have become less intricate, safe and effective with minimal side-effects.

Balloon Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure, which treats spine fractures giving absolute relief from the problem. The procedure is called so because orthopaedic balloons are used to lift the fractured bone and return it to the correct position.

In this process, typically, two balloons are used, one on each side of the vertebral column, to support the bone in a better way as it moves back into position and increase the likelihood of deformity correction. Next, the balloons are carefully inflated to raise the collapsed vertebral body and return it to its correct anatomical position.

Inflation of the balloons moves the soft, inner bone against the wall of the vertebral body, creating a cavity (space) inside the vertebra. Bone cement is then deposited into the cavity to stabilise the fracture.

Once the vertebral body is in the correct position, the balloons are deflated and removed. The cavity is filled with thick bone cement to stabilise the fracture. The bone cement forms an internal cast that holds the vertebral body in place. Pre-procedure preparation includes diagnostic tests such as X-ray to determine the precise location of the fracture.

It would be of interest for people to know that minimal access spine surgeries or less invasive spine surgeries like Balloon Kyphoplasty are safer and more patient friendly than open surgeries, allowing surgeons to operate without the risk of injury to the spine and adjoining muscles.

In fact, Balloon Kyphoplasty is one of the most advanced and safest surgical options for spinal fractures, associated with lesser blood loss, shorter hospitalisation and faster recovery.

So, while a high calcium diet and healthy lifestyle are important to avert osteoporosis and prevent multiple fractures, innovative cutting-edge technologies to treat spinal fractures have improved the quality of life of people, giving them a reason to rejoice.(The author is orthopaedic spine surgeon, Fortis Hospital, Delhi)]]>Fashion recallhttp://www.deccanherald.com/content/449958/fashion-recall.html
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/449958/fashion-recall.htmlFri, 26 Dec 2014 16:47:21 +0530Surekha Kadapa-Bose, Dec 27, 2014:Fashion fades, only style remains eternal. So, what changed, what clicked and made news this year in the fashion world? Surekha Kadapa-Bose looks back on some of the fashion trends of the year that was.

Fashion is for everybody. Whether you are curvy, boyish, petite or full-figured, there is always something the fashion designers have for you. Trends rapidly change, so staying "in" requires that you wear something, which besides being functional, is aesthetically pleasing, too.

While what constitutes good fashion is debatable, understanding the elements of style can lead to more time in the limelight. Fashion designers, for example, design clothes considering who is likely to wear a garment and the situations in which it will be worn. Some of their creations hit the bull's eye and go on to become all the rage, whereas some fail miserably.

Many a times, even the most popular designers fail. Remember designer Manish Malhotra, Sabyasachi Mukherjee or Masaba Gupta when they dressed Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Vidya Balan and Sonam Kapoor, respectively, for their stint on the red carpet at Cannes Film Festival? They were disasters. Whereas Deepika Padukone in a Rohit Bal sari looked stunning.

Like the previous years, we have had some stunning trends and failures this time, too. Lets take a look:

Comfort is prime

The mantra today is comfort, which translates to easy wear. The youth wants to dress traditionally, but find it difficult to handle the drapes involved. Thus, structured draping really appeals to them.

Designer Tarun Tahiliani says, "The modern Indian women are aware of traditions, yet remain strong in their individual style statement. Consequently, we introduced interesting new drapes in saris like the dhoti sari, concept sari and cocktail sari, which suit the tastes of the modern Indian woman perfectly." Musing on the trends of the year,

Mumbai-based designer Ritu Pande opines, "The modern Indian women want to retain their girlie appeal even in western attires. Helping this was the reaffirmation of lace as a major part of the fashion landscape. The timeless beauty of the fabric was revisited for some serious chic. Whether used as a subtle feminine accent or an overall look, lace upped the elegance quotient. Lacy trench coat was one of the coolest looks of 2014. I enjoyed lace especially in the Wills Fashion Week in my collection titled 'Lady in Lace.'''

One thing this decade has highlighted is that though women are more comfortable in jeans and t-shirts and prefer them for all kinds of outings, they look for a dash of feminity in their look. Women also look for a complete feminine look minus the heavy ethnic wear. In fact, skirts of all length - knee length, flowy floor length or full volume balloon skirts - were a rage this year.

Known for his edgy, quirky designs, Mumbai-based designer Swapnil Shinde says, "In terms of silhouettes, the year heralded the return of the body con dresses, whether they were bandage dresses or fitted monochrome or colour-blocked short dresses.''

Adding further, Delhi-based designer Priyanka Batra says, "The trend of the year was showing off your midriff, and the crop top turned out to be the best way to do that. Crop top has staying power, for casual events and formal functions, be it Indian or Western." Further she advises, "Team it up with pencil skirts, jeans, pants or even Indian skirts - it goes perfectly with all kinds of looks."

To flaunt crop tops, one needs to have a narrow waist line and no muffin tops popping out from the top of skirts and jeans. Lean and tall actors like Anushka Sharma, Deepika Padukone, Katrina Kaif have flaunted this attire in several films such as PK, Finding Fanny and Dhoom 3, to name a few.

The year also saw a changing trend in legwear. "Pants now have more flares. High-waist attire came back in a huge way. Adding to this trend were the palazzo pants. These pants, both in floor-length and ankle-length options, suit every body type and were quite the rage,'' adds Delhi-based Anjalee of Anjalee and Arjun Kapoor duo. Even the varied prints have got the young women hooked. Mumbai's bespoke designer Jeline George explains, "Designers injecting art into prints made it to the ramps and stores. Paint splashed pieces creating bold effect with bright hues to sleek graphics in subtle shades seemed to be the absolute must." The best way to flaunt prints was to wear it bold - from jackets to totes and heels. For the faint-hearted, subtle yet strong slogan prints made news. 'It doesn't matter much what you say as long as you're saying it loud and clear' seemed to be the underlined fashion statement of the year. The goofs-ups

By far, the worst fashion trend was the blanket coat followed by ugly sandals craze, which dominated 2014. The former is guaranteed to make you look like a homeless person or somebody who just rolled out of bed and the latter unfortunately, seems to be carrying on strong. Worst nightmare of dressing is teaming sneakers or sports shoes with couture attire, concur Ritu, Anjalee and Jeline, on some of the eyesores of 2014.

Designers advise to opt for comfort footwear in the form of platforms, flatforms or sandals. Another eyesore was the trend of sporting leggings by every body shape. You need to follow some ground rules for wearing leggings. Wear it with tops no less in length than mid-thigh, no matter how skinny your legs are. Plus the colour has to be dark to balance the look without any ice cream or Christmas prints!

The designers also give a thumbs-down to overly distressed denims. No, greater number of rips doesn't translate to a good look. The designers concur, "Denims with huge holes from thigh to shin was the worst trend. They don't make any practical sense and your legs just won't look flattering in them.''

Looking forward to the coming year, Swapnil predicts, "A big trend for 2015 is prints - floral, geometrics or abstract.The dominating colours will be amethyst, purple, royal blue and topaz.''

Philosophising on the new year trends, Tarun concludes, "It's not just about the trends, it's about where Indian fashion is headed. Indians who live here are on the cusp of a new way, which is a wonderful fusion of the two worlds our mind space inhabits. And this for me is the next big thing - where a true confluence in ideas results in a contemporary Indian style that is not 'ethnic' or 'western' but is a true synthesis and has a global identity and relevance.'']]>Showcase..http://www.deccanherald.com/content/449956/showcase.html
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/449956/showcase.htmlFri, 26 Dec 2014 16:33:59 +0530Dec 27, 2014:Tea, anyone?

&raquo;Gear up and welcome the misty winter mornings with your favourite hot brew in the latest offerings of the tea and saucer range from Arttd'iniox. An exciting mix of options has been unveiled for the varied tastes and preferences.

The pink bloom range is inspired from nature, in which the beauty of flowers, leaves and buds are put together as accentuating elements of the design. The colour pink of semi-precious stone 'Rose Quartz' highlighted in the form of bud gives a royal look to the collection. Rose quartz is also known as the 'love stone' and brings love into life and daily situations.

The collection comes with a tea set in textured stainless steel, the cup and saucer with high-end porcelain and textured saucer. This is accompanied with a cookie platter.There's also the bird range with tea and coffee mugs, which have little birds chirping away and the blueberry range, inspired from the blueberry plant.High on style

&raquo;A bar at home is like having an oasis of rejuvenation and entertainment right within your own four walls. Tasteful homemakers, therefore, pull all stops to make this area exquisite. Pouring a glass of wine from a stylish bar has a charm of its own. And Socktail.com offers you an exhaustive assortment of designer bar cabinets.

The beautiful cabinets in high-quality Sheesham wood come in a variety of sizes to suit all preferences and spaces. They are commodious and offer a range of stocking units like a wine rack, wine glass slots, drawers and cabinets. The Kashmir cabinet is a stunning large sideboard with an incorporated open-fronted wine rack, while the Dakota table is an ideal choice for a smaller area and can be creatively done up.

The slatted shelf can be used to hold alcohol bottles, while the table top can be stacked with glasses and coasters. The mint rustic trunk bar is perfect for those who like an earthy, royal touch in their interiors.

Classic charm

&raquo;Taking a cue from the classics, vintage figurines are a trend that has never really gone out of style. Whether authentic antique pieces or pieces inspired by the love for vintage, it effectively manages to create a lasting appeal of a bygone era. The figurines collection by Vrieti offers classy interior figurines and accessories to style your home.

This collection is an eclectic amalgamation of vintage and modern designs in a matchless way. Be it a bungalow, an apartment or a table corner, these pieces will flawlessly add an old-world charm to your home and make it picture perfect.

Vrieti is offering you these magnificent pieces made of clay, white cement, Plaster of Paris and coloured glass crystals that are unique, vibrant, classy and enduring.

Available in rich colours like gold, silver and black, these figurines and artworks are sure to add elegance and affluence to any home. These masterpieces have been designed effortlessly keeping in mind the taste of trendsetters and connoisseurs.

Chic creativity

&raquo;It's time to plan that rollicking year-end party at home. And fashionandyou.com is offering you plenty of ways to crank up the cool quotient this year. Let your guests be impressed with your special flair for chic creativity as you serve them drinks in LED, skull-shaped shot glasses or martini glasses powered with psychedelic lights.

To top it off, pop a few water-filled, reusable LED ice cubes into those tasty cocktails and employ cool multi-coloured stirrers to complete the look. Perk your party up with fabulous drinking games such as table-top air hockey sets and pool game sets, also available on the site.

If elegance is more in tune with the kind of party you wish to throw, opt for classy wine and champagne glasses that embody your love for the finer things in life.

Pretty flower coasters in muted shades will enhance the lovely splendour of the setting. Pair up snazzy accessories with cool collectibles and set the mood for the night.

It is Saturday morning. You have just rubbed sleep off your eyes. Last night's dream has already faded. You sit down with a cup of coffee and a newspaper to look at the tales that are pouring in from around the world.

Hey, wait! Do you have a marshmallow in hand? Or, are you gulping bottled juice? Or, are you satiating your cravings with some jellied dessert? Sorry, vegetarians, I hate to be an early morning spoilsport, but it's time you heard the truth. If you think marshmallow is merely a sweet sin, think again. It has gelatin, a protein derived from bones, cartilage, tendons and skin of animals.

That bottled juice probably has carmine made of ground cochineal (an insect) and the jellied dessert might have a hint of isinglass, which is made from the air bladder of sturgeon.

Unfortunately, what you think is vegetarian might not really be vegetarian. No, I am not talking about eggs here. Instead, I am talking of hidden animal byproducts. Like, gelatin in ice cream. Animal tallow in cheese. Suet (hard white fat around kidneys, loins of animals) in pastries. A lot of animal byproducts are regularly used in baked and processed food, alcoholic beverages and fruit preservatives.

Do not be disheartened, though. You need not pull out your sweet tooth in distress. There are real vegetarian alternatives. Chef Sahil Arora, executive chef, Jaipur Marriott, replaces gelatin with kanten, which is made of seaweed. He suggests replacing egg in cakes with a combination of condensed milk, butter and yoghurt.

For a pure vegetarian dessert, chef Abhishek Basu, executive chef, The Park, New Delhi, uses agar instead of gelatin. Shun maida and use whole wheat flour for that extra healthy touch. Apple sauce or a fruit puree is a good alternative to butter, so is coconut oil. "Most of the ingredients are easily available," adds Abhishek.Chocolate buckwheat cakeIngredients

Mix milk, oil, butter, sugar to a smooth consistency in a bowl. Sieve flour, cocoa powder and baking powder together. Melt chocolate on a double boiler and mix it with the mixture of milk, butter and sugar. After mixing it well, add the flour mixture by cutting and folding. This method helps trap all the air in the mixture. Then, add the nuts. Put this mixture in a well-greased tray in a preheated oven and bake it at 170 degrees Celsius for 30-35 minutes. Recipes courtesy: Chef Sahil Arora, executive chef, Jaipur Marriott

Cut water chestnut into cubes. Toss it in annar syrup to give it colour. Coat it in tapioca flour and poach it in boiling water till cooked. Take it out; put it in cold water and strain. Sweeten the coconut milk with sugar syrup and put the dumplings into the same. Serve it chilled with a sprig of mint.